New findings from a Giellepi Health Science Division clinical research trial demonstrates that a mixture of probiotic strains and lactoferrin could aid in reducing the most common cause of vaginal discomfort in women.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal inflammation, characterized by a depletion of beneficial bacteria (lactobacilli) and an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina. Typically women in their reproductive years may suffer from BV, though it can impact women of any age. Antibiotics are used for the short-term treatment of BV but recurrent infections remain a problem.
The findings of the Giellepi S.p.A.-sponsored study using DuPont premium probiotic strains published in Beneficial Microbes, assess the efficacy of a probiotic mixture, including Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, in combination with bovine lactoferrin RCX, as adjuvant therapy to metronidazole in women with recurrent BV. The randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial involved 48 adult women and assessed the normalization of Nugent score, remission of symptoms, and recurrences during a six-month follow-up period.
Study details
In the study, women with symptomatic BV were treated with metronidazole for seven days and were randomly assigned to take simultaneously either orally probiotic mixture plus lactoferrin (verum) or placebo (two capsules/day for five days followed by one capsule/day for 10 consecutive days; induction phase). The verum or placebo administration (one capsule/day for 10 consecutive days) was repeated monthly (maintenance phase) during the six months of follow-up starting the first day of menstrual cycle as the menstrual blood increases the vaginal pH and contributes an increased risk of recurrences.
The results showed that symptoms (vaginal discharge and itching) and Nugent score, were significantly improved and BV recurrence rate was significantly reduced by the probiotic-lactoferrin combination when compared with placebo. This alternative approach may represent a safe and effective adjunct for the restoration and maintenance of healthy vaginal microbiota in reducing risk for recurrent BV.
Making a strong connection
“This research is extraordinary because it offers further evidence that specific probiotics as dietary supplements can be used to manage BV,” said Megan DeStefano, Global Marketing Manager, Probiotics, DuPont Nutrition & Health. “There has long been evidence of this, but the current study makes a strong connection that probiotics could in fact reduce the risk of this condition.”
Rosario Russo, Scientific Officer of Giellepi Health Science Division added, “In the past, qualitative studies have shown that BV is associated with a substantial negative impact on self-esteem, sexual relationships, and quality of life. In many respects, these study results have the potential to positively influence the lives of countless women who can now feel more confident and secure with themselves and in their relationships.”
For more information about DuPont Nutrition & Health’s probiotics, visit www.dietarysupplements.dupont.com
About Giellepi S.p.A
Giellepi Health Science Division is a global leader in offering ready-to-market, private label specialty nutraceutical products in targeted therapeutic fields. All products are developed and tested in our modern facility located in Italy. The assessment of clinical safety and efficacy of the formulations is made in collaboration with KOLs and independent experts working in prestigious hospitals and universities. Giellepi is also committed to develop and market unique cutting-edge branded ingredients backed by scientific research. For more information visit www.giellepi.it
About DuPont Nutrition & Health
DuPont Nutrition & Health, a DowDuPont Specialty Products Division business, combines in-depth knowledge of food and nutrition with current research and expert science to deliver unmatched value to the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and dietary supplement industries. We are innovative solvers, drawing on deep consumer insights and a broad product portfolio to help our customers turn challenges into high-value business opportunities. More information is available at www.food.dupont.com
About DowDuPont Specialty Products Division
DowDuPont Specialty Products, a division of DowDuPont , is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, building and construction, health and wellness, food and worker safety. DowDuPont intends to separate the Specialty Products Division, which will be called DuPont, into an independent, publicly traded company. More information can be found at www.dow-dupont.com
