Prevention of chemotherapy-induced diarrheawith the use of probiotics among patients diagnosedwith colorectal cancer: A systematic review andmeta-analysis of randomized trials
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Abstract: : INTRODUCTION: Chemotherapy is a common treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC), but it often leads to adverse effects, including chemotherapy-induced diarrhea (CID), which can significantly impact patients’ quality of life and treatment adherence. Probiotics have emerged as a potential intervention to mitigate gastrointestinal side effects during chemotherapy. This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of the prevention of CID by giving supplemental probiotics in CRC patients. METHODOLOGY: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials was conducted with CRC patients receiving any form of systemic chemotherapy and are taking supplemental probiotics. The effect of probiotics on the severity of CID was determined. RESULTS: The study overall showed a significant difference in those who are undergoing probiotic supplementation as compared to a placebo group in terms of the manifestation of diarrhea, which is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy. However, in terms of clinically severe diarrhea (Grade 3–4 based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events), there was no significant difference in the placebo and experimental group. CONCLUSION: The use of probiotics shows promise as a preventive strategy for CID in patients with CRC. These findings support the incorporation of probiotics into the supportive care regimen for these patients, potentially enhancing treatment tolerance and quality of life. Further research is warranted to explore the specific strains and dosing regimens that may offer the most benefit.
Language: English
Subfield: Food Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7140589458