The researchers performed a comprehensive analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials encompassing 2,144 participants to determine whether probiotics used before H. pylori eradication could improve clinical outcomes.
The following were the key findings:
- The intention-to-treat analysis showed a higher eradication rate in the probiotics pretreatment group compared to controls (80.34% vs. 70.49%), with a relative risk (RR) of 1.14.
- Per-protocol analysis also indicated better outcomes with probiotics (86.43% vs. 76.88%; RR = 1.12).
- Patients who received probiotic pretreatment experienced fewer treatment-related side effects (16.0% vs. 28.3% in controls; RR = 0.59).
- The findings suggest that probiotics can improve both treatment efficacy and tolerability, aiding better adherence to therapy.
- The benefits of probiotics were consistent across different geographical regions, eradication regimens, and probiotic formulations.
- Pretreatment durations of 14 days or longer showed the most significant improvement in eradication rates, indicating that sufficient exposure time may be key for probiotics to impact gut microbiome and H. pylori suppression.
The findings highlight the potential of integrating gut microbiome modulation into H. pylori management strategies. “Probiotic pretreatment offers a promising approach to enhance eradication efficacy and reduce side effects, especially in the face of growing antibiotic resistance,” the authors noted.
With H. pylori treatment failures posing a global challenge, this meta-analysis provides a compelling case for incorporating probiotics as part of a comprehensive eradication protocol. The authors recommend further large-scale, well-designed clinical trials to determine optimal probiotic strains, dosing regimens, and treatment durations to maximize therapeutic benefits.
"The research paves the way for a potential paradigm shift in H. pylori therapy, emphasizing the role of probiotics not just as a supportive measure but as a proactive component of eradication strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes and addressing the limitations of current treatment protocols," the authors concluded.
Reference:
Zhang Y, Tu M, Long P, Zheng J, Du G, Xiao S, Gao C. Efficacy of probiotics pretreatment in Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes. Ann Med. 2025 Dec;57(1):2533431. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2025.2533431. Epub 2025 Jul 23. PMID: 40697099; PMCID: PMC12288164.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.