IMPACTS OF PROLONGED ANTIBIOTIC USE ON THE INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The prolonged use of antibiotics has been identified as a significant cause of intestinal dysbiosis, disrupting microbiota balance and compromising mucosal integrity. The gut flora plays an essential role in digestion, immunity, and protection against pathogens. Disturbances in this ecosystem can lead to chronic inflammation, metabolic changes, and increased susceptibility to diseases. METHODS: This is a narrative literature review based on 13 scientific articles published between 2014 and 2024, selected from the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. Studies in Portuguese, English, and Spanish discussing the impacts of prolonged antibiotic use on the gut microbiota were included. DISCUSSION: Evidence shows that continuous or inappropriate use of antibiotics can reduce microbial diversity and favor the proliferation of resistant strains. These alterations are linked to diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and mood disorders. Furthermore, the importance of restorative strategies, such as probiotics and fiber-rich diets, is emphasized for microbiome recovery. The literature suggests that full microbiota reestablishment may take weeks or months, depending on the duration and type of antibiotic used.