Objectives The aim of this study was to elucidate the effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus L-92 on subjective symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis in subjects with mild to moderate symptoms using a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group comparison study.
Methods Subjects were divided into 2 groups which consumed tablets containing L-92（2×10¹⁰ cells）or placebo once a day for 8 weeks. In the study period, Subjects assessed their nasal and ocular symptoms every day. These symptoms were scored from 0（no symptoms）to 4（very severe）. Also, subjects recorded use of medicine. The symptom-medication score were calculated by the daily symptom score and the daily rescue medication score. Nasal cavity findings, that is, swelling and color of the nasal mucosa, and amount and property of mucus were scored by medical doctor. Additionally, to assess the safety of the study tablets, a physical and blood examination were performed.
Results A significant difference in baseline changes in nasal symptom medication scores was also observed between the placebo and L-92 groups. Additionally, the score of mucus property decreased at 8wk from baseline in L-92 group, but not in placebo group. The adverse events due to the consumption of the study tablets were not observed.
Conclusions These results suggest that oral administration of L-92 can alleviate the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis in the subjects with mild to moderate symptom. Furthermore, the tablets containing L-92 used as study foods were presumed to be safe.