Are probiotics as safe as become available universally?

Background and Aim : Widespread use of probiotics and the presence of these microorganisms in human food-chain established an argument against the safety profile of probiotics. Various case-reports, clinical trials, and experimental studies have been mentioned different types of side-effects induced by the consumption of probiotics.Methods : This review is based on a PubMed and Clinicaltrials.gov search for studies undertaken over the past ۲۰ years (۲۰۰۰–۲۰۲۰) using the following keywords: probiotics, safety, adverse effects, side effectsResults : Although previous studies reported beneficial impacts in alleviating the gastrointestinal (GI) problems, cardiovascular disorders, and metabolic syndromes, the most at-risk groups of populations such as pediatrics, geriatrics, critically-ill patients are at higher risks of the occurrence of some life-threatening or life-lasting adverse events. Bacteremia, fungemia, GI disorders, metabolic problems, extreme immune stimulations, seizure, Kawasaki disease and etc. have been associated with the use of probiotics. Moreover, due to the antibiotic resistance gene reservoir property of the GI tract, transference of the resistance genes among probiotics, human normal flora and pathogenic microorganisms endow probiotics to propagate antibiotic resistance genes globally.Conclusion : With the increased tendency of probiotic consumption, several arguments have been made regarding the safety and efficacy of these products. Several clinical complications and adverse effects are reported in different studies as consequences of probiotics. Since these microorganisms might carry antibiotic resistance genes, the risk of antibiotic resistance gene transfer between available bacteria increases. The overall conclusion of this review is to take careful considerations for the utilization of probiotics.

کلیدواژه ها:

Probiotics ، Safety ، Adverse effects ، Antibiotic resistance