Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterial pathogen that infects half of the world population. While standard treatment was initially effective, eradication rates have declined over the last 20 to 30 years, and the use of adjuvants, such as probiotic supplements, has been suggested to improve efficacy. This review presents evidence supporting the use of Lacidofil(®), an established blend of two thoroughly characterized probiotic strains, as an adjuvant to standard therapy for H. pylori eradication. The microbiology and epidemiology of H. pylori infection as well as current approaches to diagnosis and treatment are summarized, and the roles of probiotics to support standard H. pylori treatment are outlined. Lacidofil(®) and its component strains are described, and evidence from eight clinical trials supporting its efficacy is presented. H. pylori eradication rates were increased in participants receiving Lacidofil(®) (90-100%) compared to controls (70-86.7%), and the incidence of side effects was decreased (e.g., antibiotic-associated diarrhea-Lacidofil(®): 0-13.6%; controls: 20-40.9%). Published summaries, including systematic reviews with meta-analysis and an umbrella review, are discussed. To expand on the discussion of clinical studies, in vivo and in vitro studies are reviewed, including studies using state-of-the-art molecular methods. They characterize Lacidofil(®)'s mechanism of action and further support its efficacy as an adjuvant strategy for H. pylori eradication, side effect reduction, and return to gut microbiota homeostasis.