Efficacy of Limosilactobacillus reuteri UBLRu-87 in Infantile Colic and Its Symptoms: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

Infantile colic, characterized by excessive crying in healthy infants, presents a significant challenge for parents and healthcare providers. This study investigated the potential of <i>Limosilactobacillus reuteri</i> (<i>L. reuteri</i>)UBLRu-87 in alleviating colic symptoms and enhancing parental quality of life (QOL) in eighty breastfed infants ≤4 months of age through a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The treatment group received <i>L. reuteri</i> UBL Ru-87 drops, whereas the placebo group received an identical-looking placebo. Over 28 days, the study assessed crying time, burping, facial flushing, and fussiness. Parental QOL was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). Fecal samples were analyzed for microbial diversity before and after treatment. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in colic symptoms in the probiotic group, particularly in crying time. In addition, burping, fussiness, and facial flushing were reduced significantly in probiotic-treated infants. Responders (infants with a 50% reduction in crying time) were also significantly enhanced. Parents of infants in the probiotic group reported a considerable improvement in QOL. Fecal microbiome analysis indicated beneficial shifts in microbial composition in the probiotic group, including increased Bifidobacteria and Firmicutes, along with reduced harmful bacteria like <i>Enterococci</i>, <i>Staphylococci</i>, and <i>Streptococci</i>. In conclusion, the use of <i>L. reuteri</i> UBLRu-87 notably diminished colic symptoms and improved parental QOL. These results suggest that <i>L. reuteri</i> UBLR-87 holds promise as a therapeutic option for alleviating infantile colic pain by influencing gut microbiota.