How do Sacharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus compare?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 23, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Sacharomyces boulardii is likely a better choice than Lactobacillus rhamnosus for preventing and treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, and Clostridium difficile infections, as it has been shown to reduce the duration of diarrhea by 28.77 hours and the frequency of prolonged diarrhea by 55% 1.

Key Differences Between Sacharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus

  • Sacharomyces boulardii is a beneficial yeast, while Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a bacterial probiotic
  • S. boulardii is particularly effective for preventing and treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, and Clostridium difficile infections
  • L. rhamnosus, especially the GG strain, excels at supporting immune function, preventing respiratory infections, and treating atopic conditions like eczema

Dosage and Administration

  • Typical dosage of S. boulardii ranges from 250-500 mg taken 1-2 times daily
  • Typical dosage of L. rhamnosus is 1-10 billion CFU daily

Mechanism of Action

  • S. boulardii produces compounds that neutralize bacterial toxins and strengthen the intestinal barrier
  • L. rhamnosus adheres well to intestinal mucosa, produces lactic acid that lowers gut pH, and stimulates immune responses

Safety and Contraindications

  • Both probiotics are generally safe, though S. boulardii may be contraindicated in immunocompromised patients or those with central venous catheters
  • L. rhamnosus is considered safe for use in adults and children, including those with compromised immune systems

Clinical Applications

  • S. boulardii may be preferable for digestive issues, while L. rhamnosus may be better for immune support or allergic conditions
  • These probiotics can be taken together for complementary benefits, as they work through different mechanisms 1

From the Research

Comparación de Sacharomyces boulardii y Lactobacillus rhamnosus

  • Ambas cepas son probióticos utilizados para prevenir y tratar trastornos gastrointestinales, como la diarrea asociada a antibióticos y la gastroenteritis aguda pediátrica 2, 3.
  • Sacharomyces boulardii es una levadura probiótica que ha demostrado ser efectiva en la prevención y tratamiento de la diarrea asociada a antibióticos, así como en la reducción de la duración de la diarrea en niños con gastroenteritis aguda 2, 4.
  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus es una bacteria probiótica que también ha demostrado ser efectiva en la prevención y tratamiento de la diarrea asociada a antibióticos, aunque algunos estudios sugieren que Sacharomyces boulardii puede ser más efectiva en ciertos casos 2, 3.
  • Una ventaja de Sacharomyces boulardii es que no es afectada por los antibióticos, lo que la hace adecuada para su administración en casos de diarrea asociada a antibióticos 3.
  • La evidencia sugiere que la administración oportuna de un probiótico adecuadamente dosificado, como Sacharomyces boulardii o Lactobacillus rhamnosus, puede ayudar a prevenir o resolver las consecuencias de la disbiosis asociada a antibióticos y promover la resiliencia de la microbiota intestinal 3.

Eficacia y seguridad

  • La eficacia y seguridad de Sacharomyces boulardii han sido confirmadas por varios estudios clínicos y metaanálisis, que han demostrado su capacidad para reducir la duración de la diarrea y prevenir la diarrea asociada a antibióticos 2, 4, 5.
  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus también ha demostrado ser seguro y eficaz en la prevención y tratamiento de la diarrea asociada a antibióticos, aunque es importante tener en cuenta que la eficacia puede variar dependiendo de la cepa y la dosis utilizada 3.
  • Es importante destacar que la evidencia sugiere que la administración de probióticos debe ser adecuada y oportuna para maximizar su eficacia en la prevención y tratamiento de trastornos gastrointestinales 3.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.