Clinical trial: the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM affects gut symptoms and opioid receptor expression in patients with functional bowel disorders
Ringel-Kulka T, Goldsmith JR, Carroll IM, Barros SP, Palsson O, Jobin C, Ringel Y
Published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Methodology
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM in patients with functional bowel disorders, with colonic mu-opioid receptor expression measured
Key Findings
NCFM increased colonic mu-opioid receptor expression and reduced abdominal pain in patients with moderate to severe baseline pain.
Conclusions
L. acidophilus NCFM may reduce visceral pain through opioid receptor modulation.
Limitations
Modest sample; subgroup-driven symptom benefit.
Supplements Studied
NCFM increased colonic mu-opioid receptor expression and reduced abdominal pain in patients with moderate to severe baseline pain.
Outcomes Measured
NCFM increased colonic mu-opioid receptor expression and reduced abdominal pain in patients with moderate to severe baseline pain.
Study Details
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