Scientists at Stanford University believe understanding changes from taking prescription drugs may help scientists design treatments that reduce side effects.

Their study of fecal samples showed competition for nutrients plays a significant role in which bacteria thrive, diminish, or disappear from medication treatment. This means the medical community can use treatments while preventing side effects on gut health.

Researchers found that 141 prescription drugs of 707 studied significantly altered the microbiome, in some cases completely wiping out some species.

“Drugs don’t just kill bacteria; they also reshuffle the ‘buffet’ in our gut, and that reshuffling shapes which bacteria win,” adds Stanford researcher Handuo Shi. 

https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/11/medications-gut-microbiome-bacteria-digestive-system-research

https://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674(25)01243-7


Leave a comment