The Effect of Probiotic <i>Lactobacillus acidophilus</i> on the Management of Symptoms, Duration, and Disease Progression in Mild and Moderate COVID-19 Cases: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract Background COVID-19, a recently identified human disease resulting from a novel coronavirus, has led to a worldwide pandemic crisis. Considering their antiviral, anti- inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, probiotics emerge as potential treatment options. Objective To evaluate the efficacy of probiotic supplements, specifically Lactobacillus acidophilus, in managing symptoms, duration, and the progression of mild and moderate COVID-19 infections. Methods A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted at the triage clinic of the Family Medicine Department at Ain Shams University Hospitals, involving 100 participants diagnosed with mild and moderate COVID-19 severity. Excluded from the study were individuals below 18 or above 65 years old, those with any co-morbidity, pregnant or lactating females, and confirmed cases of severe COVID-19. The randomization process involved sealed envelopes containing codes for either the intervention or control group. Patients are monitored for the alleviation of their symptoms, with attention to the absence of new symptoms emerging throughout a two-week period. Results The study included 100 patients with mild and moderate COVID-19 severity, evenly distributed with 50 patients in each group. Approximately one-third of participants were aged between 29 and 39 years, one-quarter were between 18 and 28 years, and 40.6% were aged 40 years and above. The average duration for symptom improvement was 11 days in the probiotic group and 12 days in the control group. Both groups exhibited improvement in inflammatory markers over time, with no statistically significant difference between them. Conclusion Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus demonstrates no substantial impact on the symptoms, duration, and progression of mild and moderate cases of COVID-19.