Could a probiotic soothe PTSD? new study tests Gut-Brain link in veterans

NCT ID NCT04150380

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a probiotic called Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can reduce inflammation and PTSD symptoms in veterans. Researchers enrolled 383 veterans with PTSD and gut issues, giving them either the probiotic or a placebo. The goal was to see if calming inflammation in the body could also ease PTSD symptoms.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (a probiotic)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, natural supplement to help ease PTSD symptoms and related inflammation in veterans.
What could go wrong: This is a Phase 2 trial, so results are still early. The probiotic may not significantly improve symptoms, and benefits may not apply to non-veterans or those without gut issues.

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.

functional colonic disease Inflammation inflammatory disease post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

INFLAMMATION POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

VA Rocky Mountain Regional Center

Denver, Colorado, 80045, United States

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