Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
09:20
Investigating the Effects of Probiotics on Pneumococcal Colonization Using an In Vitro Adherence Assay
Published on: April 28, 2014
Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections
Qiukui Hao1, Zhenchan Lu, Bi Rong Dong
1Department of Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guo Xue Xiang, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, 610041.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|September 9, 2011
Summary
Probiotics significantly reduce the incidence and rate of acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) compared to placebo, with minor side effects. Further research is needed for specific populations like the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Probiotics modulate immune function and may prevent respiratory infections.
- Limited evidence exists on probiotic efficacy and safety for acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of probiotics in preventing acute URTIs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- Searched multiple databases including CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science.
- Included 14 RCTs, with meta-analysis performed on 10 trials involving 3451 participants.
Main Results:
- Probiotics reduced the number of participants experiencing acute URTI episodes and the overall rate of URTI episodes compared to placebo.
- Antibiotic prescription rates for acute URTIs were lower in the probiotic group.
- No significant difference in the mean duration of URTI episodes or adverse events between probiotics and placebo.
- Probiotic side effects were minor, primarily gastrointestinal.
Conclusions:
- Probiotics demonstrate a beneficial effect in preventing acute URTIs and reducing antibiotic use.
- The findings suggest probiotics may be more effective than placebo for URTI prevention.
- Limitations include heterogeneity in some analyses and lack of data for older adults.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...
01:22Probiotics
Probiotics are live, non-pathogenic microorganisms that confer health benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem, and the balance of this microbiota is crucial for digestive and systemic health. Among the most extensively studied and utilized probiotics are species formerly classified within the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These organisms not only naturally colonize the human gut but are also consumed through...
01:16Drugs Used in Upper Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Upper respiratory tract disorders, including viral infections and allergic rhinitis, cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Managing these conditions involves a variety of drugs, such as antihistamines, intranasal steroids, decongestants, antitussives, expectorants, and mucolytics. Specific examples of drugs in each category are provided.
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) block histamines from binding. Histamines are chemicals released during an allergic reaction in the body. As a...
01:30Acute Pharyngitis
Introduction
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
01:23Upper Respiratory Drugs: Antitussives, Expectorants, and Mucolytics
Respiratory symptoms, such as congestion and cough, commonly accompany respiratory tract conditions. Various medications, such as antitussives, expectorants, and mucolytics, play crucial roles in providing relief.
Antitussives include codeine, dextromethorphan (Robitussin), and benzonatate (Tessalon). Codeine and dextromethorphan exert their effects centrally by suppressing the cough reflex center in the medulla. Benzonatate operates peripherally within the respiratory tract by anesthetizing...
Antitussives include codeine, dextromethorphan (Robitussin), and benzonatate (Tessalon). Codeine and dextromethorphan exert their effects centrally by suppressing the cough reflex center in the medulla. Benzonatate operates peripherally within the respiratory tract by anesthetizing...
01:15Upper Respiratory Drugs: First and Second-Generation Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a class of drugs widely used to alleviate the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. They work by inhibiting the actions of histamine, which is released by immune cells in response to allergenic substances or tissue injuries.
Histamine binds to specific receptor sites, known as H1 receptors, on tissue cells, triggering inflammation and swelling. Antihistamines combat these effects by competing with histamine for these receptor sites. By...
Histamine binds to specific receptor sites, known as H1 receptors, on tissue cells, triggering inflammation and swelling. Antihistamines combat these effects by competing with histamine for these receptor sites. By...