Practical aspects of probiotics application: A Delphi study

Aim. To evaluate the awareness of healthcare professionals on possibilities and approaches to probiotics use in prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal disease in routine practice. Materials and methods. An anonymous survey of 35 leading experts in the field of gastroenterology, therapy, pediatrics and clinical pharmacology was conducted using the Delphi method. Results. Experts consider probiotics effective and safe for acute diarrhea and functional gastrointestinal disorders treatment. Participants stated there are enough evidence that probiotics could be effective for prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including agreement with the statement that Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 effectiveness has been studied and is known for AAD indication. Early use of probiotics with extension for 1–2 weeks after the end of antibacterial treatment is considered rational. Conclusion. During the Advisory board the consensus has been reached for matters of efficacy and safety of probiotics, along with importance of evidence evaluation of each medicine, as well as the need for careful and thorough assessment of quality for probiotic supplements.