Probiotic supplementation (Vibact DS) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Real-world experience from India

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic supplementation (Vibact DS) on anthropometric, glycemia, and lipid parameters in Indian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: In this multicentric, retrospective, observational study, adult patients with T2DM who had received Vibact DS probiotic supplement for 3 months were identified from the patient medical records at each center. We assessed the effect of probiotic use on weight, body mass index (BMI), glycemic parameters, lipid profile, and impact on gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. Results: From 50 centers across India, data of 308 patients were analyzed retrospectively. In this sample, the mean age was 54.15 years, 60.69% were males, and the mean weight was 70.97 ± 10.38 kg. After 3 months of Vibact DS, there was a significant reduction in body weight, BMI, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) (P < 0.0001 for each parameter). Mean reduction in HbA1c was statistically significant (mean change at 3 months: –0.8%; P < 0.0001). There were significant improvements in lipid parameters (P < 0.0001) excepting high-density lipoprotein. Control of GI side effects was reported in 12.66% of patients. Physicians rated excellent and very good clinical efficacy in 25.9% and 40.6% of patients, whereas excellent and very good tolerability was reported in 28.2% and 42.1% of patients, respectively. Conclusion: This real-world evidence from India shows that regular use of probiotics such as Vibact DS may significantly improve the glycemic and metabolic profile and aids in relieving GI problems in patients with T2DM.