Background

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) found in the mouth, vagina, and gut. It's also found in fermented foods.

"Good" bacteria such as L. rhamnosus can help break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases. Specific strains of L. rhamnosus are commonly added to fermented foods like yogurt and are also found in probiotic supplements.

People use L. rhamnosus for diarrhea from antibiotics, eczema, preventing allergic reactions, and preventing respiratory tract infections. It is also used for hay fever, stomach pain, canker sores, colic, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these other uses. There is also no good evidence to support using L. rhamnosus for COVID-19.

Don't confuse L. rhamnosus with other probiotics, or with fermented food products such as fermented milk, kefir, or yogurt. These are not the same. Also note that L. rhamnosus used to be classified under the Lactobacillus genus. But Lactobacillus was split up into 25 different genera in April 2020. Some product labels might still list this species as Lactobacillus rhamnosus rather than its new name, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus.

Safety Safety definitions

When taken by mouth: L. rhamnosus is likely safe. It's been used safely together with other probiotics for up to 6 months. Some people might experience gas or bloating, but it's usually well-tolerated.

When applied to the vagina: L. rhamnosus is likely safe. It's been used safely for up to 6 months.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy: L. rhamnosus is possibly safe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. It's been used safely alone and together with other probiotics at various stages of pregnancy. There's some concern that taking certain probiotics during pregnancy, including L. rhamnosus, might increase the risk for high blood pressure. But it's not clear which patients might be at increased risk.

Breast-feeding: L. rhamnosus is possibly safe when taken by mouth while breast-feeding. It's been used safely for up to 6 months.

Children: L. rhamnosus is likely safe when taken by mouth appropriately in children. It's been used safely for up to 3 years.

Digestive system problems: People with serious GI disorders, such as short bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), might be more likely to develop L. rhamnosus infections. If you have any of these conditions, talk with your healthcare provider before taking L. rhamnosus.

Weakened immune system: L. rhamnosus has caused blood infections in a small number of people with weakened immune systems. If you have a weakened immune system, talk with your healthcare provider before taking L. rhamnosus.

Damaged heart valves: L. rhamnosus can cause an infection in the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valve. This is extremely rare, but people with damaged heart valves should stop taking probiotics before dental procedures or surgical procedures.

Effectiveness

Dosing & administration

L. rhamnosus is commonly added to fermented foods such as yogurt. It's also commonly taken in dietary supplements.

In adults, L. rhamnosus has most often been taken by mouth, alone or together with other probiotics, in doses of up to 20 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) daily, for up to 6 months. In children, doses have varied. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

Antibiotic drugs

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

L. rhamnosus is a type of friendly bacteria. Antibiotics are used to reduce harmful bacteria in the body. Taking antibiotics along with L. rhamnosus can reduce the effects of L. rhamnosus. To avoid this interaction, take L. rhamnosus products at least 2 hours before or after antibiotics.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.