VSL3 probiotic research
VSL#3 ( VSL#3 ) is a high-concentration probiotic supplement of eight live freeze-dried bacterial species that are normal components of the human gastrointestinal microflora, including four strains of lactobacilli (Lactobacillus casei, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, and L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus), three strains of bifidobacteria (Bifidobacterium longum, B. breve, and B. infantis), and Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus. For more vitamin supplement information.
Spotlight on VSL#3 probiotic mixture in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.
BioDrugs. 2007;21(1):61-3.
Wolters Kluwer Health | Adis, Auckland, New Zealand.
Data from noncomparative trials suggest that VSL#3 has clinical potential in the treatment
of active mild to moderate ulcerative colitis and as maintenance therapy for
patients with ulcerative colitis in remission. In addition, a randomized,
open-label, multicenter trial showed that VSL#3 in combination with low-dose
balsalazide (a prodrug of mesalazine [mesalamine; 5-aminosalicylic acid]) was
more effective than standard doses of basalazide or mesalazine monotherapy in
the treatment of acute mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. Randomized,
double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown VSL#3 is effective in
preventing the onset of acute pouchitis in patients with newly formed surgical
pouches, and in maintaining remission following antibacterial treatment of acute
pouchitis in patients with a history of refractory or recurrent pouchitis.
Treatment guidelines from the US and the UK include VSL#3 as a therapeutic
option for the prevention of pouchitis relapse in patients with chronic
pouchitis. In general, VSL#3 was well tolerated in clinical trials. Large, well
designed, controlled confirmatory clinical trials will further determine the
place of VSL#3 in the treatment of
ulcerative colitis.
VSL#3 questions
Q. I came across an article about a
probiotic blend called VSL#3. I would
like to ask if you have any information about this probiotic in the management
of the ulcerative colitis or proctitis symptoms.
A. We are not familiar with this VSL#3 product, but it does appear
that legitimate research has been done with it.