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The Effect of Multiprobiotics on Memory and Attention in Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Diana Cardona1, Pablo Roman1, Fernando Cañadas2
1Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Medicine, Health Research Center (CEINSA), University of Almeria, 04120 Almeria, Spain.
Abstract:
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic, generalized and diffuse pain disorder accompanied by cognitive deficits such as forgetfulness, concentration difficulties, loss of vocabulary and mental slowness, among others. In recent years, FMS has been associated with altered intestinal microbiota, suggesting that modulating gut microbiota (for example, through probiotics) could be an effective therapeutic treatment. Thus, the aim of the present study was to continue exploring the role of probiotics in cognitive processes in patients with FMS. A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted in 31 patients diagnosed with FMS to compare the effects of a multispecies probiotic versus a placebo on cognitive variables (memory and attention) after eight weeks. Results showed that treatment with a multispecies probiotic produced an improvement in attention by reducing errors on an attention task, but it had no effect on memory. More specifically, a tendency to reduce errors of omission (Go trials) during the Go/No-Go Task was observed after treatment. These findings, along with our previous results in impulsivity, underline the relevance of using probiotics as a therapeutic option in FMS, although more research with a larger sample size is required.
Insights
Probiotics may improve attention in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) patients by reducing errors. This study suggests exploring probiotics for cognitive support in FMS, though more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain disorder with cognitive deficits.
- Altered gut microbiota in FMS suggests potential therapeutic targets.
- Probiotics are being investigated for their role in modulating gut microbiota and improving FMS symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a multispecies probiotic on cognitive functions, specifically memory and attention, in patients with FMS.
- To build upon previous research exploring the link between gut microbiota and cognitive processes in FMS.
Main Methods:
- A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 31 FMS patients.
- Comparison of a multispecies probiotic versus a placebo over an eight-week period.
- Assessment of cognitive variables including memory and attention using standardized tasks.
Main Results:
- Multispecies probiotic treatment significantly improved attention, evidenced by a reduction in errors on an attention task.
- A trend towards reduced omission errors (Go trials) in the Go/No-Go Task was observed.
- No significant effect on memory performance was found.
Conclusions:
- Probiotics show potential as a therapeutic option for improving attention in FMS patients.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm these findings and explore other cognitive domains.
- Modulating the gut microbiota through probiotics may be a viable strategy for managing cognitive aspects of FMS.
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