Probiotics have gained significant attention due to their potential benefits in treating infectious diseases. Recent systematic review and meta-analyses published in BMC Infectious diseases in 2024, by Nelwan and their co-authors highlights the role of probiotics, both single and multi-strain regimens, as adjuvants to conventional therapies in managing common infections such as Helicobacter pylori, urinary tract infections (UTIs), diarrheal infections, and HIV infections. This meta-analyses discusses findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis that evaluated the effectiveness of probiotics in these areas, summarizing their impact on health outcomes and current evidence gaps.

Role of Probiotics as an Adjuvant in Treating Infections: Evidence-Based Insights

Interesting News . Dec 24, 2024

Probiotics have gained significant attention due to their potential benefits in treating infectious diseases. Recent systematic review and meta-analyses published in BMC Infectious diseases in 2024, by Nelwan and their co-authors highlights the role of probiotics, both single and multi-strain regimens, as adjuvants to conventional therapies in managing common infections such as Helicobacter pylori, urinary tract infections (UTIs), diarrheal infections, and HIV infections. This meta-analyses discusses findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis that evaluated the effectiveness of probiotics in these areas, summarizing their impact on health outcomes and current evidence gaps.

Methodology

The systematic review followed a robust approach, analyzing data from 6,950 studies identified through PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane databases. After eliminating duplicates and filtering titles and abstracts, 32 studies were included, comprising:


The data extraction and meta-analysis were conducted using RevMan software, with evidence certainty evaluated through the GRADE system. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials (ROB 1.0 and 2.0).

Key Findings

1. Probiotics in H. pylori Eradication

Relative Risk (RR) for Probiotic Efficacy
Relative Risk (RR) for Probiotic Efficacy

2. Probiotics in UTIs

3. Probiotics in Diarrheal Infections

4. Probiotics in HIV

The graph highlights the Relative Risk (RR) of probiotics for key conditions:

Conclusion and Future Directions

The analysis supports the use of probiotics as an effective adjuvant in eradicating H. pylori and managing UTIs. Key takeaways include:

Practical Considerations

This evidence-based analysis underscores the growing role of probiotics in treating infections while highlighting areas requiring further investigation. Share your thoughts or ask us about how probiotics can enhance health outcomes