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Lactobacillus reuteri LR92

Also known as: Lactobacillus reuteri (strain LR92), L. reuteri LR92, Lactobacillus reuteri strain LR92, Lactobacillus reuteri LR92

Overview

Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium and a specific strain of L. reuteri used in probiotic formulations. It is naturally found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. This probiotic is primarily used for promoting gastrointestinal health, particularly in the prevention and treatment of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children. Research also suggests potential benefits for oral and systemic health. L. reuteri LR92 produces antimicrobial substances like reuterin, modulates immune responses, and competes with pathogenic bacteria for colonization sites. While research maturity is moderate, with several RCTs and systematic reviews available, evidence specific to LR92 is somewhat limited but generally consistent with broader L. reuteri findings, particularly those related to the closely related strain DSM 17938.

Benefits

Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 demonstrates several evidence-based benefits. In children with acute gastroenteritis (AGE), supplementation significantly reduces the number of diarrhea cases, with effects observed as early as day 1 and stabilizing by day 4. A meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (n=963) showed a significant reduction in diarrhea cases on day 1 (RR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.78–0.97) and day 2 (RR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.44–0.83). For oral health, a meta-analysis of 6 RCTs found significant improvement in probing depth reduction for both peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. Potential secondary effects include immune modulation and reduction in systemic inflammation, although evidence is less robust. The most significant benefits are seen in children for AGE treatment and prevention, and in adults for oral health, especially in dental implant patients.

How it works

Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 exerts its beneficial effects through several key mechanisms. It produces reuterin and other antimicrobial compounds that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, it enhances gut barrier function and modulates host immune responses, contributing to a balanced gut microbiota. The probiotic also competes with pathogens for adhesion sites and nutrients, preventing their colonization. These actions primarily occur locally within the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity, as L. reuteri LR92 is not absorbed systemically. Its molecular targets include Toll-like receptors (TLRs), cytokines, and antimicrobial peptides, influencing both the gut and oral environments.

Side effects

Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for most populations. Common side effects are rarely reported, but mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas may occur in a small subset of individuals. Uncommon side effects are not well-documented, with no significant adverse events reported in most RCTs. Very rare cases of bacteremia have been reported in severely immunocompromised individuals. There are no significant drug interactions reported, although the effectiveness of L. reuteri LR92 may be affected by concurrent antibiotic use. It is contraindicated in severely immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, recent organ transplants, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. Caution is advised in immunocompromised patients, while it is generally considered safe for children and adults.

Dosage

For children with acute gastroenteritis (AGE), a minimum effective dose of 10^8–10^9 CFU/day is recommended, based on studies of the closely related strain DSM 17938. This dosage range is also considered optimal for children in general. For adults seeking oral health benefits, the recommended dosage is also 10^8–10^9 CFU/day, though this may vary by formulation. A maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 10^10 CFU/day have been used safely in clinical trials. It is best taken with or shortly after meals to enhance survival through the stomach. L. reuteri LR92 is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and lozenges (for oral health). It is not absorbed systemically, exerting its effects locally in the gut or oral cavity.

FAQs

How should Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 be stored?

If the product is not shelf-stable, it should be stored refrigerated to maintain its viability and effectiveness. Check the product label for specific storage instructions.

Is it safe to take Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 with antibiotics?

Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 may be less effective if taken concurrently with antibiotics. It is best to take the probiotic at a different time of day than the antibiotic to minimize potential interactions.

Who should avoid taking Lactobacillus reuteri LR92?

Severely immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, recent organ transplants, or those on immunosuppressive therapy, should avoid taking Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 due to a potential risk of bacteremia.

When is the best time to take Lactobacillus reuteri LR92?

For best results, take Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 with or shortly after meals. This helps to enhance its survival through the stomach and allows it to effectively colonize the gut.

What results can I expect from taking Lactobacillus reuteri LR92?

In children with diarrhea, you may see a reduction in symptoms within 1–4 days. For oral health improvements, expect to see changes over a period of weeks with consistent use.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6893691/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of L. reuteri for acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children, including 963 participants, found that L. reuteri significantly reduced diarrhea cases on days 1 and 2, with stable effects by day 4. The review indicated no effect on nosocomial or rotavirus diarrhea, but noted limitations due to heterogeneity in strains and study designs. Overall, the study was deemed high-quality with clear effect sizes and confidence intervals.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37147591/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 6 RCTs examined the effects of L. reuteri on peri-implant diseases in adults. The study found significant improvements in probing depth for both peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis. While the effect sizes were small and the number of studies limited, the findings were statistically significant, indicating a moderate to high-quality of evidence.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/1/45 – This narrative review explores the potential benefits of L. reuteri for oral and systemic health. It highlights the probiotic's ability to modulate the immune system and reduce pathogenic bacteria. While informative, this review is not a primary study and lacks quantitative data, making it less rigorous than systematic reviews.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1095555/full – This article discusses the immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus reuteri, highlighting its role in influencing the host's immune response. It details how L. reuteri interacts with the immune system to promote a balanced inflammatory response and enhance gut health. The research suggests potential applications in managing various inflammatory conditions.
https://www.biolifesas.org/EN/PDF/10.23812/21-2SUPP1-7 – This paper likely provides specific details on the properties and applications of Lactobacillus reuteri LR92, potentially including strain-specific data and clinical trial results. Further examination of the full text would be needed to extract specific findings and assess the quality of the research.