Probiotics decrease the incidence of NEC and death – so why aren’t we using them?

A recent meta-analysis suggested that oral probiotics decreased the incidence of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and its associated mortality; however, there is much debate about the interpretation of this evidence. No UK units currently offer prophylactic probiotics as a routine, and there are practical difficulties in obtaining a suitable product. This article reviews how probiotics might work, the risks and benefits associated with their use, and the potential disadvantages of doing nothing while we await further research.

Nicholas D Embleton, Themyat Thwin, Jenny Kerr, Pam Cairn