biotherapeutic agents

Objective: To evaluate the potential of biotherapeutic agents (microorganisms with therapeutic properties) for the prevention and treatment of selected intestinal and vaginal infections.

Study Selection And Data Extraction: All placebo-controlled human studies on biotherapeutic agents were reviewed. English-language open trials, case series and reports, and animal studies were reviewed only if they were especially relevant to providing information on the potential efficacy, adverse effects, or mechanisms of action of these agents.

Data Synthesis: Placebo-controlled studies have shown that biotherapeutic agents have been used successfully to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea (Lactobacillus casei GG, Bifidobacterium longum, B longum with L acidophilus, and
Saccharomyces boulardii), to prevent acute infantile diarrhea (Bifidobacterium bifidum with Streptococcus thermophilus), to treat recurrent Clostridium difficile disease (S boulardii), and to treat various other diarrheal illnesses (Enterococcus faecium SF68, L casei GG, and S boulardii).
There is also evidence for Lactobacillus acidophilus in the prevention of candidal vaginitis. Few adverse effects have been reported. However, many of the studies tested only small numbers of
patients or volunteers.

Conclusions: There is now evidence that administration of selected
microorganisms is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of certain intestinal and, possibly, treatment of vaginal infections. In an effort to decrease the reliance on antimicrobials, the time has come to carefully explore the therapeutic applications of biotherapeutic agents.

References
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2. McFarland LV, Elmer GW.
Biotherapeutic agents: past, present and
future. Microecology Ther. 1995;23:46-73.
3. Bartlett JG. Antibiotic-associated