Gut bacteria may soothe anxiety: new trial tests probiotics

NCT ID NCT07331987

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests whether taking probiotics daily for 3 months can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in 60 adults with mild-to-moderate conditions. Participants will receive either probiotics, a placebo, or the antidepressant escitalopram. Researchers will measure changes in mood, sleep, and gut bacteria to see if probiotics offer a safe, natural way to support 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

Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and escitalopram (an antidepressant)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, natural supplement to help manage mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression alongside standard care.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 60 people. Probiotics may not outperform placebo, and results may not apply to everyone with anxiety depression.

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.

anxiety disorder Depression mixed anxiety and depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University

    RECRUITING

    Guangzhou, Guangdong, China

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••