The Effect of Administering the Probiotic Lactiplantibacillus Plantarum DAD-13 on Procalcitonin Levels, C-Reactive Protein, and Interleukin-6 in Sepsis Patients in the Intensive Care Unit of H. Adam Malik Hospital, Medan

Abstract Sepsis remains a major global health issue with high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in intensive care units (ICU). This study investigated the effects of administering the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Dad-13 on inflammatory markers (procalcitonin [PCT], C-reactive protein [CRP], interleukin-6 [IL-6]) and defecation profiles in sepsis patients admitted to the ICU at RSUP H. Adam Malik Medan. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 30 sepsis patients divided into two groups: one receiving L. plantarum Dad-13 (2 capsules/day for 4 days) and the other a placebo. Biomarker levels and defecation frequency/consistency were monitored.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT07072871, registered on 21 July 2025. Retrospectively registered. Results showed a clinical reduction in PCT, CRP, and IL-6 levels in the probiotic group compared to the placebo group, though the changes were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Defecation frequency and stool consistency improved significantly in the probiotic group by days 3 and 4 (p < 0.05), indicating enhanced gut microbiota balance. The study suggests that L. plantarum Dad-13 may aid in modulating inflammatory responses and improving gastrointestinal function in sepsis patients, albeit further research with longer intervention periods and larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.