Strain-Specific Efficacy of Probiotics in Management of Infantile Colic – A Literature Review

Introduction and purpose: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), such as infantile colic (IC), are conditions that occur without any identified structural or biochemical abnormalities. It is estimated that nearly 20% of infants under five months of age experience infantile colic, which is characterized by episodes of excessive crying that are difficult to soothe. The condition causes significant emotional and economic impact on families and healthcare systems. This review aims to analyse efficacy of various probiotic strains in managing symptoms of infantile colic. Results: Probiotic strains vary in the effects on treating infantile colic. The most extensively analysed probiotic for IC is Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (formerly named Lactobacillus). However, its effectiveness in formula-fed infants is still questionable. Other strains, including Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12, Bifidobacterium breve CECT7263, and combinations such as Bifidobacterium longum KABP042 with Pediococcus pentosaceus KABP041 have shown promising results, often outperforming L. reuteri and even pharmacological treatments for example with simethicone. Conclusions: Probiotic therapy offers a safe and promising approach to reducing symptoms of infantile colic, especially in breastfed infants. However, its efficacy is strain-dependent and not universal. Further large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to establish standardized recommendations and explore long-term outcomes. Personalized probiotic interventions targeting the infant gut microbiota may be included in the future of colic management.