Gut health may hold key to preventing mania relapse

NCT ID NCT03383874

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether taking a daily probiotic supplement could prevent relapse in people recently hospitalized for mania. Over 24 weeks, 66 participants received either the probiotic or a placebo. The main goal was to see if the probiotic reduced the need for re-hospitalization. Researchers also tracked mood symptoms, thinking skills, and gut bacteria changes.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, safe add-on treatment to help people with bipolar disorder stay stable after a manic episode.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 66 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The effect may be small or not better than placebo.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder bipolar I disorder Mania Psychotic Disorders schizoaffective bipolar disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Psychoneuroendocrine Research Program

    Dallas, Texas, 75235, United States