Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Antibiotics are essential in treating bacterial infections, but their use often leads to disturbances in the gut microbiota, resulting in antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts, have been proposed as a potential strategy to prevent AAD. This thesis aims to explore the role of probiotics in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea through a comprehensive review of existing literature, a detailed analysis of research methodologies, and an in-depth discussion of findings and implications. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the topic, outlining the background of the study, the problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The introduction highlights the increasing incidence of AAD and the potential of probiotics to mitigate its effects. Chapter 2 presents a thorough literature review encompassing ten key aspects related to the use of probiotics in preventing AAD. This chapter examines the mechanisms of action of probiotics, the types of probiotic strains used, dosage regimens, evidence from clinical trials, and potential side effects to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of knowledge in this field. Chapter 3 details the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, participant selection criteria, probiotic interventions, outcome measures, data collection methods, and statistical analysis techniques. This chapter aims to ensure the rigor and reliability of the research findings. In Chapter 4, the findings of the study are presented and discussed in depth. The results of the literature review and research analysis are synthesized to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in preventing AAD, identify factors influencing their effectiveness, and explore potential areas for further research and improvement. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing their implications for clinical practice, and suggesting recommendations for future research. The thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the use of probiotics as a preventive measure against antibiotic-associated diarrhea and underscores the importance of further research in this area to optimize treatment outcomes and patient care. In conclusion, this thesis provides a comprehensive examination of the role of probiotics in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, offering valuable insights into their efficacy, safety, and potential applications in clinical practice. The findings of this study have significant implications for healthcare providers, researchers, and policy-makers seeking to enhance patient outcomes and reduce the burden of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Thesis Overview