Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938

What does the research say about Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938?

8 health outcomes synthesised

Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 has been studied across 8 health outcomes, with the strongest evidence supporting its use for reducing diarrhea rate in children (11 papers), reduced crying time in infants with colic (9 papers), and reduced abdominal pain (13 papers). Typical effective doses range from 1×10^8 to 5×10^8 CFU/day in pediatric populations, with most studies in infants and children.

Strongest Evidence

Reduced Diarrhea Rate (high evidence, 11 papers): 8 of 11 studies found benefits in children with acute gastroenteritis or in daycare, with doses around 1–4×10^8 CFU/day over short periods.
Reduced Crying Time (high evidence, 9 papers): 8 of 9 studies reported benefits in infants with colic, particularly breastfed infants, with moderate-to-large reductions (-45 to -65 minutes/day) at doses of 1–5×10^8 CFU/day over 28 days.
Reduced Abdominal Pain (moderate evidence, 13 papers): 11 of 13 studies found small-to-moderate benefits in children with functional abdominal pain or colic, at 10^8 CFU/day over 8 weeks.
Reduced Duration of Diarrhea (moderate evidence, 5 papers): All 5 studies reported benefits in children, with doses around 10^8 CFU/day.
Reduced Vomiting Frequency (moderate evidence, 3 papers): All 3 studies found small benefits in healthy and breastfed infants, dose 10^8 CFU/day for 4 weeks.

Mixed or Weaker Evidence

Reduced Crying Duration (low evidence, 3 papers): 2 of 3 studies found benefits in infants with colic, but one large RCT in antibiotic-exposed neonates found no effect.
Reduced Diarrhea (low evidence, 3 papers): Only 1 of 3 studies showed benefit, in hospitalized children; 2 neutral in healthy settings.
Reduced Stool Volume (very low evidence, 3 papers): 1 of 3 studies showed benefit in children with functional constipation.

Effective Dose Patterns

The most consistent dose across multiple outcomes (abdominal pain, diarrhea duration, vomiting) is 10^8 CFU/day.
For diarrhea rate and crying time, doses up to 5×10^8 CFU/day are also effective.
No dose was consistently effective for weaker outcomes.

Population Insights

Children dominate most studies: For diarrhea, abdominal pain, and infant colic, populations include children 4–18 years, infants, and preterm infants.
Breastfed infants show particular benefit for crying time and vomiting reduction.
Hospitalized or antibiotic-exposed children may have diminished benefit for some outcomes.

Notable Caveats

Publication bias possible: Across 8 syntheses, the caveat notes that null results may be underreported.
Evidence strength varies wildly: From very low (stool volume, 1/3 positive) to high (diarrhea rate, 8/11 positive).
Short study durations: Most studies lasted under 8 weeks, and for diarrhea, often just 5 days.
Small sample sizes: Many studies were moderate or small, especially for weaker outcomes.

Frequently asked

What is Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 good for according to research?
Research shows it is most consistently beneficial for reducing diarrhea rate in children (8 of 11 studies), reducing crying time in infants with colic (8 of 9 studies), and reducing abdominal pain in children (11 of 13 studies). Benefits are also seen for reducing diarrhea duration and vomiting frequency, but evidence is weaker for crying duration and stool volume.
What dose of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is typically used in studies?
The most common effective dose across multiple outcomes is 10^8 CFU/day. For diarrhea rate and crying time, doses up to 1–5×10^8 CFU/day (1 to 5 billion colony-forming units) are also used. Studies typically administer it once daily.
Who benefits most from Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938?
The strongest evidence is in infants with colic (especially breastfed infants) and children with acute gastroenteritis, functional abdominal pain, or attending daycare. For crying time, the effect is largest in breastfed infants. For diarrhea, results are clearest in children aged 6–36 months with acute diarrhea.
Are there caveats or limitations in the research on Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938?
Yes. Many syntheses flag possible publication bias, meaning null results may be underreported. Several outcomes have small numbers of studies (3–5 papers) and study durations are short (often 5–56 days). Some larger or recent trials found no effect, suggesting benefits may be context-dependent.
Does Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 help with abdominal pain?
Evidence is moderate: 11 of 13 studies found small-to-moderate benefits, primarily in children with functional abdominal pain or colic. The typical dose is 10^8 CFU/day over 8 weeks. However, two neutral studies suggest the effect may be inconsistent.
Is there evidence for Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 reducing crying duration?
The evidence is weak and mixed. Of 3 studies, only 2 reported benefits, with effect sizes varying from small to large. One large review found a large benefit in colicky infants, but a recent RCT in antibiotic-exposed neonates found no effect. Use is supported only in infants with colic.

Safety profile

25 studies reporting safety data2 serious adverse events

Across 25 clinical studies, no specific adverse events were found to be increased with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 compared to control. In 18 studies, no significant differences were observed for events such as crying time, spitting-up, colic, and gastrointestinal symptoms, with some outcomes favoring the probiotic. The supplement was described as well tolerated in 26 mentions, and serious adverse events were not attributed to the probiotic. Overall, the evidence indicates a favorable safety profile in the studied populations, primarily infants and children.

Caveats: Most studies were short-term (typically ≤8 weeks) and focused on infant populations; long-term safety and effects in adults or immunocompromised individuals are not well characterized. Many trials were powered for efficacy rather than safety, so rare adverse events may not have been detected.

High evidenceReduced Diarrhea Rate
High evidenceReduced Crying Time
Moderate evidenceReduced Abdominal Pain
Moderate evidenceReduced Duration of Diarrhea
Moderate evidenceReduced Vomiting Frequency
Low evidenceReduced Crying Duration
Low evidenceReduced Diarrhea
Very low evidenceReduced Stool Volume
Reduced Obesity
Reduced Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Most-studied combinations with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938

most supplement research is combination research

Also studied with:Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (4), Lactobacillus reuteri UALre-16 (2)

Gastrus For Optimal Gut Health
By BioGaia
4.7 (2.4K reviews)
Out of Stock
Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri Gastrus® Blend
-
L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475
Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 6475
-
L. reuteri DSM 17938
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938
-
Outcomes Supported by Research
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Reduced Gastrointestinal Symptoms2 studies
Reduced Bone Loss1 studies
Increased Bone Mineral Density1 studies
Improved Bone Health1 studies
Gluten Free
Milk Free
No Artificial Colors
Other ingredients
Isomalt
ascorbic acid
mint flavor
mandarin flavor
Free of
Non-GMO ingredients
no artificial colors
dairy
soy
gluten
Serving Size: 1
Servings per Container: 30
Pill Type: Tablet
Flavor: -
UPC: 602359460179
Available From
Available From
Merchant Price Stock Action
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$24.00
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Kids, Immune Active with L. Reuteri + Vitamin D, Orange
By BioGaia
4.8 (510 reviews)
Out of Stock
Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients Amount Per Serving
Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D
800 IU
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (L. reuteri Protectis®)
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938
-
Outcomes Supported by Research
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Improved Feeding Tolerance1 studies
Reduced Gastrointestinal Symptoms1 studies
Reduced Recovery Time for Diarrhea1 studies
Reduced Fecal Metabolite Levels1 studies
Milk Free
No Artificial Colors
Product Description
Supports Immune Health: BioGaia Kids Immune Active enhances your child's immune system with the combined power of L. Reuteri and Vitamin D.
Probiotic Protection: Contains the probiotic L. Reuteri, which helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria crucial for immune defense.
Essential Vitamin D: Provides 800 IU of Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) to support strong bones and teeth, and to strengthen the immune system.
Kid-Friendly Flavor: Delicious orange flavor in a chewable tablet format makes it easy and enjoyable for kids to take.
Pure and Simple: Formulated with no artificial colors and milk-free, making it suitable for children with dietary restrictions or allergies.
Daily Convenience: Easy to incorporate into your child's daily routine for consistent immune support.
Clinically-Studied Ingredients: Contains ingredients that are backed by scientific research for their beneficial effects on children's health.
Other ingredients
Isomalt
xylitol
orange flavor
citric acid
Free of
GMO
artificial colors
dairy
soy
Serving Size: 1
Servings per Container: 60
Pill Type: Tablet
Flavor: -
UPC: 602359460407
Available From
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Merchant Price Stock Action
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$26.99
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$26.99
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Prodentis Kids

By BioGaia

4.6 (479 reviews)

Out of Stock

Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients	Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri Prodentis® Blend	200 million CFU
L. reuteri ATCC PTA 5289 Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 5289	-
L. reuteri DSM 17938 Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938	-

Outcomes Supported by Research

Increased Salivary pH2 studies
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Reduced Plaque Index2 studies
Reduced Vaginal Candidiasis Symptoms1 studies
Reduced Cariogenic Bacteria1 studies

Product Description

Supports kids' oral health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth.
Contains L. reuteri Prodentis® Blend, providing 200 million CFU per lozenge, scientifically researched for its oral health benefits.
Convenient lozenge format makes it easy for children to take and ensures the active ingredient is delivered effectively.
Gluten-free and milk-free, making it suitable for kids with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Free from artificial colors, offering a natural choice for health-conscious parents.
Backed by BioGaia's trusted quality and commitment, ensuring top-notch safety and efficacy in every lozenge.

BioGaia Prodentis Kids offers a simple and effective way to support your child's oral health by fostering a healthy bacterial environment in the mouth, which can reduce the risk of cavities and improve overall dental hygiene.

Other ingredients

isomalt
xylitol
apple flavor
citric acid

Free of

artificial colors
dairy
soy
gluten

Serving Size: 1

Servings per Container: 30

Pill Type: Lozenge

Flavor: -

UPC: 602359460384

Prodentis For Gums And Teeth

By BioGaia

4.8 (103 reviews)

Out of Stock

Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients	Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri Prodentis® Blend	200 million CFU
L. reuteri ATCC PTA 5289 Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 5289	-
L. reuteri DSM 17938 Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938	-

Outcomes Supported by Research

Increased Salivary pH2 studies
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Reduced Plaque Index2 studies
Reduced Vaginal Candidiasis Symptoms1 studies
Reduced Cariogenic Bacteria1 studies

Product Description

Supports Gum and Teeth Health: BioGaia Prodentis For Gums And Teeth is specifically formulated to promote healthy gums and teeth.
Key Ingredient - L. reuteri Prodentis® Blend: Each lozenge contains 200,000,000 CFU of L. reuteri Prodentis®, a probiotic known to support oral health by balancing the natural bacteria in your mouth.
Great Taste: Enjoy the pleasant apple flavor while taking care of your teeth and gums.
Gluten Free: Safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
No Artificial Colors: A natural approach to oral health, free from unnecessary additives.
Milk Free: Suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

BioGaia Prodentis For Gums And Teeth is an easy-to-take lozenge designed to integrate seamlessly into your daily oral care routine. Its carefully selected probiotic strain, L. reuteri Prodentis®, helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth, leading to healthier gums and teeth. The product is tailored for users seeking a natural supplement that is both effective and pleasant-tasting, with the added benefit of being free from gluten, artificial colors, and milk.

Other ingredients

isomalt
xylitol
apple flavor
citric acid
mint flavor
fresh fruity flavor

Free of

artificial colors
dairy
soy
gluten

Serving Size: 1

Servings per Container: 30

Pill Type: Lozenge

Flavor: Apple

UPC: 602359460483

Protectis MUM
By BioGaia
4.7 (172 reviews)
In Stock
Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri DSM 17938
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938
100 million CFU
L. reuteri Protectis®
Lactobacillus reuteri
-
Outcomes Supported by Research
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Improved Feeding Tolerance1 studies
Reduced Gastrointestinal Symptoms1 studies
Reduced Recovery Time for Diarrhea1 studies
Reduced Fecal Metabolite Levels1 studies
Gluten Free
Milk Free
No Artificial Colors
Vegan
Product Description
Supports Digestive Health: BioGaia Protectis MUM capsules contain L. reuteri DSM 17938 at 100000000 CFU, a clinically proven probiotic strain that promotes a balanced gut flora.
Enhances Immune Function: Regular consumption boosts the immune system by improving gut health, which is crucial for overall well-being.
Gluten-Free and Vegan: Ideal for individuals with dietary restrictions, ensuring no compromise on digestive health.
No Artificial Colors: Free from artificial additives, preserving the natural benefits without unwanted chemicals.
Milk Free: Suitable for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies, broadening its accessibility to a diverse audience.
Easy-to-Swallow Capsules: Designed for convenience, ensuring the daily intake is simple and hassle-free.
Trusted and Safe: BioGaia is known for rigorous quality control and research-driven formulations, providing peace of mind with each capsule.
BioGaia Protectis MUM is specially formulated to offer natural digestive support and immune enhancement, tailored to meet the needs of mothers and those with specific dietary preferences. With its unique probiotic strain, each vegan, gluten-free, and milk-free capsule contributes to a healthier you, day by day.
Other ingredients
maltodextrin
magnesium stearate
capsule (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose)
Free of
artificial colors
flavors
dairy
soy
gluten
Serving Size: 1
Servings per Container: 30
Pill Type: Capsule
Flavor: -
UPC: 602359460292
Available From
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Merchant Price Stock Action
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$22.99
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Prodentis For Gums And Teeth
By BioGaia
4.6 (1.8K reviews)
Out of Stock
Supplement Ingredients
Ingredients Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri Prodentis® Blend
-
L. reuteri ATCC PTA 5289
Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 5289
-
L. reuteri DSM 17938
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938
-
Outcomes Supported by Research
Reduced Plaque Index2 studies
Increased Salivary pH2 studies
Reduced Liver Injury1 studies
Reduced Duration of Diarrhea1 studies
Reduced Recovery Time for Diarrhea1 studies
Milk Free
No Artificial Colors
Other ingredients
Isomalt
peppermint flavor
menthol flavor
peppermint oil
sucralose
Free of
Non-GMO ingredients
no artificial colors
dairy
soy
Serving Size: 1
Servings per Container: 30
Pill Type: -
Flavor: Mint
UPC: 602359420241
Available From
Available From
Merchant Price Stock Action
Amazon
$-
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iHerb
$23.00
In
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Protectis Kids
By BioGaia
4.7 (1.2K reviews)
Out of Stock
Protectis Kids
By BioGaia
4.8 (5 reviews)
Out of Stock

Ingredients	Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri Gastrus® Blend	-
L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 6475	-
L. reuteri DSM 17938 Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938	-

Ingredients	Amount Per Serving
Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) Vitamin D	800 IU
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (L. reuteri Protectis®) Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938	-

Ingredients	Amount Per Serving
L. reuteri DSM 17938 Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938	100 million CFU
L. reuteri Protectis® Lactobacillus reuteri	-

Available From
Merchant	Price	Stock
Amazon	$-	Out
iHerb	$24.00	In
Vitacost	$-	Out
Vitamin Shoppe	$-	Out

Available From
Merchant	Price	Stock
Amazon	$-	Out
iHerb	$26.99	In
Vitacost	$26.99	In
Vitamin Shoppe	$-	Out

Available From
Merchant	Price	Stock
Amazon	$-	Out
iHerb	$23.00	In
Vitacost	$23.99	In
Vitamin Shoppe	$-	Out

Available From
Merchant	Price	Stock
Amazon	$-	Out
iHerb	$23.00	In
Vitacost	$-	Out
Vitamin Shoppe	$-	Out

Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938

Frequently asked

Safety profile

Gastrus For Optimal Gut Health

Kids, Immune Active with L. Reuteri + Vitamin D, Orange

Prodentis Kids

Prodentis For Gums And Teeth

Protectis MUM

Prodentis For Gums And Teeth

Protectis Kids

Protectis Kids