Probiotic supplements side effects
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Common Side Effects of Probiotic Supplements
Probiotic supplements are generally considered safe for most people, but they can cause side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, such as abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal distention. These effects are usually mild and temporary, but some studies have found that the risk of abdominal pain may be higher in certain groups, such as patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) 12.
Serious and Rare Adverse Effects
Although rare, more serious side effects have been reported. These include systemic infections, skin complications, inflammation of the endocardium (the inner lining of the heart), gene transfer from probiotics to normal gut bacteria, metabolic disturbances, and immune system stimulation. These risks are especially relevant for vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, hospitalized patients, and those with weakened immune systems .
Probiotics and Cancer Therapy Side Effects
In cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, probiotics have been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of treatment-related side effects, particularly diarrhea and oral mucositis. Most studies report that probiotics help alleviate these symptoms without causing serious adverse effects. However, the need for more high-quality, large-scale studies is emphasized to confirm safety and effectiveness in this group 347910.
Probiotics and Antibiotic Therapy Side Effects
When used alongside antibiotics, especially for Helicobacter pylori eradication, probiotics can reduce the frequency of side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and taste disturbances. The overall incidence of side effects is generally lower in patients taking probiotics with antibiotics, though the impact may vary depending on the probiotic strain and the specific therapy regimen 568.
Special Considerations for At-Risk Groups
Certain groups are more susceptible to adverse effects from probiotics. These include people with compromised immune systems, infants, the elderly, and those with severe underlying illnesses. In these populations, the risk of systemic infections and other serious complications is higher, so careful evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio is necessary before recommending probiotic supplements .
Conclusion
Probiotic supplements are mostly safe and can help reduce some side effects of medical treatments, especially in cancer and antibiotic therapies. However, mild gastrointestinal symptoms are common, and rare but serious risks exist, particularly for vulnerable individuals. It is important to assess individual risk factors before starting probiotic supplementation, and more research is needed to clarify the safety profile for specific populations and probiotic strains.
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