Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
AMeta-analyses demonstrate LGG reduces AAD incidence by 42-49%. Most effective when started within 48 hours of antibiotic initiation and continued 7 days after completion.
The Bottom Line
Meta-analyses demonstrate LGG reduces AAD incidence by 42-49%. Most effective when started within 48 hours of antibiotic initiation and continued 7 days after completion.
Key Study Findings
Population: Italian primary care pediatricians
Population: Pediatric patients with GI disorders
Population: Male Wistar albino rats with LPS-induced sepsis
Population: Pediatric population
Population: Adult patients receiving antibiotics
Population: AAD and gastroenteritis patients (review)
Key Statistics
20
Studies
4000
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 10-20 billion CFU/day
- ibssupport:
- 10 billion CFU/day for 4-8 weeks
- aadprevention:
- 10-20 billion CFU/day (start with antibiotic, continue 7 days after)
Upper limit: Generally well-tolerated up to 40 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Mixed | 279 |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| 10^9 CFU/day for 14 days | 2 weeks | Positive | 24 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| Probiotics (multi-strain) | -- | Positive | -- |
| S. boulardii CNCM I-745 | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| Twice daily | -- | Neutral | 2650 |
Best taken: On an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals for optimal survival
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Mild gas and bloating during initial use (usually resolves in 1-2 weeks)
- ⚠ Rare reports of bacteremia in severely immunocompromised individuals
- ⚠ Occasional loose stools during adjustment period
- ⚠ Very rare: systemic infection in critically ill patients with central venous catheters
Known Interactions
- ● Antibiotics (may reduce probiotic viability; space dosing 2 hours apart)
- ● Immunosuppressants (theoretical risk of infection in immunocompromised patients)
- ● Antifungals (no known interaction but may affect gut flora balance)
Tolerable upper intake: Generally well-tolerated up to 40 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG help with Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
How much Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG should I take for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
Are there side effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG?
How strong is the evidence for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for other conditions
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.