The Cambridge IBS Study

Effects of probiotics on the caecal and faecal microbiota of irritable bowel syndrome patients receiving antibiotics: a pilot study

SUMMARY

The overgrowth of yeasts was observed following antibiotic therapy in IBS sufferers during this IBS study.
Detection of yeasts was reduced with supplementation of Lab4 probiotics prior to and alongside antibiotics.

Aim

This study assessed the effect of Lab4 probiotic supplementation on the composition of the microbiota in IBS sufferers receiving antibiotic therapy.

Method

Results

Caecal Biopsy and Caecal Lumen

In Group 1, significant increases in the detection of yeasts and Candida albicans were recorded at day 14.
In Group 1, decreases were recorded in the detection of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli at day 14.
In Group 2, detection of yeasts was reduced at day 14 compared with Group 1.

Faeces

Group 2 – detection of yeasts was reduced at day 14 compared with Group 1.
Group 1 – the percentage of IBS sufferers harbouring yeasts at day 28 (14 days after terminating antibiotic treatment) was higher than at day 0.
Group 2 – yeasts were not detected in the faecal samples at day 28.

Conclusion

The supplementation with Lab4 probiotics prior to and alongside antibiotics may provide protection against overgrowth by yeasts in IBS sufferers.

Reference

Plummer S et al 2013. Effects of probiotics on the caecal and faecal microbiota of Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients receiving antibiotics: a pilot study. Short Communication. ENGIHR, Valencia, Spain, 18-20^th September 2013, pg183-6