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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Evidence-Based Supplement Research

Use of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in paediatric gastrointestinal disorders: an updated review.

  • 2022-08-03
  • Beneficial Microbes 13(3)
    • V. Dargenio
    • F. Cristofori
    • C. Dargenio
    • P. Giordano
    • F. Indrio
    • G. Celano
    • R. Francavilla

Study Design

Type
Review
Methods
Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Strains of lactobacilli are the most widely used probiotics and can be found in a large variety of food products and food supplements throughout the world. In this study, the evidence on Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (LR DSM 17938) has been reviewed. This species secretes reuterin and other substances singularly or in microvesicles, inhibiting pathogen growth and interacting with the intestinal microbiota and mucosa, restoring homeostasis. The use of LR DSM 17938 has been exploited in several pathological conditions. Preclinical research has shown that this probiotic can ameliorate dysbiosis and, by interacting with intestinal mucosal cells, can raise the pain threshold and promote gastrointestinal motility. These aspects are amongst the significant components in functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as colic and regurgitation in infants, functional abdominal pain and functional constipation in children and adolescents. This strain can decrease the duration of acute diarrhoea and hospitalization for acute gastroenteritis but does not seem to prevent nosocomial diarrhoea and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Because of its ability to survive in the gastric environment, it has been tested in Helicobacter pylori infection, showing a significant decrease of antibiotic-associated side effects and a tendency to increase the eradication rate. Finally, all these studies have shown the excellent safety of LR DSM 17938 even at higher dosages. In conclusion data from various clinical trials here reviewed can guide the clinician to find the correct dose, frequency of administration, and therapy duration.

Keywords: Limosilactobacillus reuteri; children; functional gastrointestinal disorders; microbiota; probiotics.

Research Insights

Adverse Events Reported

  • Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938antibiotic-associated side effects

    showing a significant decrease of antibiotic-associated side effects and a tendency to increase the eradication rate

    Finding
    No significant difference
    Magnitude
    significant decrease of antibiotic-associated side effects
    Significant
    Yes
  • Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938Overall tolerability

    all these studies have shown the excellent safety of LR DSM 17938 even at higher dosages.

    Finding
    Reported
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