Effect of Supplements with Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus acidophilus on the Intestinal Microbiota during Administration of Clindamycin

Thirty healthy volunteers in three groups participated in a study of the influence of supplements containing Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus acidophilus on the intestinal microbiota during administration of clindamycin. All groups received clindamycin perorally q.d.s. for 7d. Group I also received a supplement with B. longum and L. acidophilus, group II received a supplement with B. longum and group III received a placebo, for 21 d. The numbers of anaerobic microorganisms decreased in all groups, but the reduction of bacteroides was significantly smaller in group I than in group III (P<0·05). No subject in group III had any intestinal bifidobacteria on day 7. Significant decreases of volatile fatty acids in faecal specimens were seen (P<0·05). There was a smaller incidence of gastrointestinal discomfort in group I than in group III (P<0·05).