The Cambridge IBS Study

Effects of probiotics on the caecal and faecal microbiota of Irritable Bowel Syndrome patients receiving antibiotics: a pilot study

Aim

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

Method

  • The study was carried out at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
  • 12 IBS sufferers were divided into two groups: Group 1 took a daily placebo from day 1 to day 14 and a combination of antibiotics (ampicillin and metronidazole) from day 8 to day 14. Group 2 took a daily Lab4 probiotic capsule (25 billion) from day 1 to day 14 and a combination of antibiotics (ampicillin and metronidazole) from day 8 to day 14
  • For microbial analysis, the caecum biopsies (tissue) and lumen (inside space) samples were collected on day 0 (start) and day 14 (end of antibiotic therapy). Faecal samples were collected on day 0, 14 and 28 (14 days post antibiotic therapy).

    • Results

    Caecal Biopsy and Caecal Lumen
  • Group 1 (placebo) – significant increases in the detection of yeasts and Candida albicans were recorded at day 14.
  • Group 1 (placebo) – decreases were recorded in the detection of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli at day 14.
  • Group 2 (Lab4 probiotics alongside antibiotics) – detection of yeasts was reduced at day 14 compared with Group 1.
    • Faeces
  • Group 2 (Lab4 probiotics alongside antibiotics) – detection of yeasts was reduced at day 14 compared with Group 1.
  • Group 1 (placebo) – the percentage of IBS sufferers harbouring yeasts at day 28 (14 days after terminating antibiotic treatment) was higher than at day 0.
  • Group 2 (Lab4 probiotics alongside antibiotics) – yeasts were not detected in the faecal samples at day 28.

    • Conclusion

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

    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, 18-20th September 2013, pg183-6

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