Responders and non-responders to probiotic interventions: How can we improve the odds?

Authors

A. W. Bruce, Toronto General Hospital
G. Reid, Toronto General Hospital
Jacqueline A. McGroarty, Toronto General Hospital
Margaret Taylor, Toronto General Hospital
Carol Preston, Toronto General Hospital

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-1992

Journal

International Urogynecology Journal

Volume

3

Issue

1

First Page

22

Last Page

25

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1007/BF00372644

Abstract

We now report the development of gelatin suppositories containing freeze dried Lactobacillus casei GR-1 and L. fermentum B-54 chosen for their ability to adhere to uroepithelial cells and inhibit the growth of E. coli and Enterococcus faecalis in vitro. The product has a long shelf life, and is easily and safely utilized. In a preliminary study of 10 female patients who received the therapy at weekly intervals for 12 months, there was a net reduction of 66.3% in the incidence of recurrent urinary tract infections. Lactobacilli were isolated from the vagina of the patients for the duration of treatment. Examination of random specimens showed some degree of correlation between numbers of lactobacilli adherent to vaginal epithelial cells and viable organisms recovered from swabs. © 1992 The International Urogynecology Journal.