Lactobacillus casei for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
CSome evidence for AAD prevention in hospitalized elderly patients (PLACIDE trial was negative for primary outcome but showed trends).
The Bottom Line
Some evidence for AAD prevention in hospitalized elderly patients (PLACIDE trial was negative for primary outcome but showed trends).
Key Study Findings
Population: Ampicillin-induced AAD mouse model
Population: Diarrhea patients
Population: None
Population: None
Population: ICU patients on antibiotics
Population: Patients on antibiotics
Key Statistics
3
Studies
500
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 1-10 billion CFU/day
- aadprevention:
- 6.5 billion CFU/day (Shirota strain)
- immunesupport:
- 10 billion CFU/day
Upper limit: Well-tolerated up to 20 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-strain probiotic mixture | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | 692 |
| None | 4.3 weeks | Neutral | 314 |
| None | -- | Mixed | 228 |
| 10 billion L. casei, 2 bottles/day | 4.3 weeks | Positive | 32 |
| None | -- | Positive | 9569 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
Best taken: With or without food; consistent daily timing recommended
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Mild gas and bloating during initial use
- ⚠ Occasional loose stools
- ⚠ Rare dairy-related reactions in lactose-sensitive individuals
- ⚠ Very rare: bacteremia in immunocompromised individuals
Known Interactions
- ● Antibiotics (may reduce probiotic viability; space dosing 2 hours apart)
- ● Immunosuppressants (theoretical risk in immunocompromised patients)
Tolerable upper intake: Well-tolerated up to 20 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lactobacillus casei help with Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
How much Lactobacillus casei should I take for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
Are there side effects of Lactobacillus casei?
How strong is the evidence for Lactobacillus casei and Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.