An Open-label, Multicenter Study to Assess the Efficacy and Safety of a Novel Probiotic Blend in Patients with Functional Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Abstract

Goal: A novel 5-strain (Bl-04, Bi-07, HN019, NCFM, and Lpc-37) probiotic blend was developed and its safety and efficacy were evaluated in patients with functional gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Background: These strains administered together have not previously been investigated. Study: Patients aged 18 to 75 years with functional GI symptoms were eligible for inclusion in a single-arm, open-label, multicenter study (NCT04155801). An oral capsule containing the novel probiotic blend was administered once daily for 30 days. The primary efficacy endpoint was patient-reported improvement in overall GI well-being at day 30. Secondary efficacy endpoints included changes in GI symptoms assessed using the GI Health Symptom Questionnaire. Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was recorded at all visits. Results: Of 188 enrolled patients, 72.3% were female and mean (SD) age was 44.1 (13.4) years. At day 30, 85.1% of patients achieved the primary endpoint, a positive response signifying improvement in overall GI well-being. Improvements from baseline were reported at day 30 in diarrhea frequency (baseline frequency ≥ 3 to 4 d/wk) and severity (baseline severity ≥ 5/10) for 75.8% and 87.3% of patients, respectively. Over the same time period, constipation frequency (baseline frequency ≥ 3 to 4 d/wk) and severity (baseline severity ≥ 5/ 10) improved in 73.6% and 80.4% of patients, respectively. Most patients reported improvements at day 30 in frequency and severity of straining, urgency, abdominal pain/discomfort, bloating, and distention. Improvements reported at day 30 were generally observable at day 14. No safety signals were identified. Conclusion: A novel 5-strain probiotic blend improved functional GI symptoms and was safe.