Gut feeling: probiotic shows promise for anxiety relief

NCT ID NCT05964231

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Mackay Memorial Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a probiotic called Lactobacillus paracasei PS23 can reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with generalized anxiety disorder. Participants took either the probiotic or a placebo for a period, and researchers measured changes in anxiety levels, sleep, and gut health. The goal is to see if improving gut bacteria can positively affect mood and mental health.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Lactobacillus paracasei PS23 (a probiotic)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple probiotic supplement to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study (71 participants) with no phase designation. The effect may be small or not generalizable, and results are not yet published.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder generalized anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY DISORDERS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mackay Memorial Hospital

Taipei, 10448, Taiwan

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.