Home Ingredients Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS)
Women's HealthKidney/Urinary Tract

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS)

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + Limosilactobacillus reuteri RC-14 (recently reclassified)
Evidence Level
Moderate
3 Clinical Trials
7 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

Specific strain pair developed by the Reid and Bruce laboratories at the University of Western Ontario, commercialized as Femdophilus and Jarro-Dophilus EPS by Jarrow Formulas using strains supplied by Chr Hansen (Denmark). Reclassification context: the original trial used L. fermentum RC-14, since reclassified to L. reuteri RC-14 (and broader genus reclassification: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus + Limosilactobacillus reuteri). The pivotal trials support a BV cure adjunct to metronidazole and restoration of normal lactobacilli in healthy women. Honest counter-evidence: an HIV-women 6-month trial and a Chinese cohort were negative on primary outcomes, so efficacy may be population-dependent.

Studied Dose 1x10^9 CFU each strain twice daily x30 days (oral); pregnancy tested at 2.5x10^9 CFU each strain.
Active Compound Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + Limosilactobacillus reuteri RC-14 (reclassified). Brands: Femdophilus, Jarro-Dophilus EPS.

Benefits

BV cure adjunct to metronidazole

Premenopausal women with BV received oral metronidazole plus GR-1 + RC-14 (1x10^9 each) twice daily for 30 days versus placebo. The probiotic group reached 88% cured versus 40% for placebo, and placebo also had more residual BV and intermediate flora. Pivotal foundational evidence for the BV adjunct positioning.

Supported by Trial 1

Healthy women vaginal flora restoration

In healthy women over 60 days, 37% had restoration to normal lactobacilli flora versus 13% on placebo, with a significant lactobacilli increase, yeast depletion, and coliform reduction. Demonstrates oral-vaginal axis activity in asymptomatic dysbiosis.

Supported by Trial 2

HIV-women 6-month trial — negative primary outcome

A 6-month trial in HIV-positive women was negative for BV cure rate enhancement, though an intermediate-flora subgroup showed beneficial vaginal pH. Important honest counter-evidence: efficacy may be population-dependent, and HIV-positive vaginal microbiota may not respond like HIV-negative populations.

Supported by Trial 3

Chinese cohort BV adjunct — negative

A Chinese cohort prospective parallel RCT was negative on its primary outcome: the adjunct did not increase BV cure rate. Honest cohort-dependent efficacy framing, as Chinese women's baseline vaginal microbiota composition may differ from previously studied populations.

Supported by Trial 3

Pregnancy vaginal microbiota safety

A pregnancy trial using 2.5x10^9 each strain monitored vaginal microbiota and cytokine outcomes. A distinguishing safety record, tested in pregnant women, supporting the reproductive women's health context.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 3

Vaginitis 348-women monotherapy (Cheng et al.)

A monotherapy study in 348 women with vaginitis over a 28-day antibiotic-free course reported over 90% satisfaction. A larger sample in a real-world community population, supporting broad practice positioning.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Lactic acid + H₂O₂ + bacteriocin antimicrobial activity

Both strains produce lactic acid (maintaining low vaginal pH ≤4.5), H₂O₂ (broad antimicrobial against Gardnerella, Mobiluncus, and Prevotella), and bacteriocins. Multi-mechanism antimicrobial activity supporting the niche-restoration framework.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 3

Mechanism of action

1

Lactic acid + low vaginal pH maintenance

Glycogen fermentation produces lactic acid, maintaining vaginal pH ≤4.5 — the foundational protective mechanism that suppresses BV-associated anaerobes.

2

H₂O₂ antimicrobial production

Both strains produce hydrogen peroxide with broad antimicrobial activity against BV-associated pathogens (Gardnerella vaginalis, Mobiluncus spp., Prevotella spp.).

3

Bacteriocin secretion

Bacteriocin secretion provides additional targeted antimicrobial activity beyond the acid + H₂O₂ effects — strain-specific molecular antimicrobials.

4

Oral-vaginal axis (translocation)

Oral capsule administration delivers strains that translocate to the vaginal niche, demonstrated with 37% versus 13% placebo lactobacilli restoration. Distinguishes from intravaginal probiotic delivery.

5

Lactobacilli niche restoration

Evidence of lactobacilli restoration with concurrent yeast depletion and coliform reduction, restoring the protective Lactobacillus-dominant microbial community rather than just adding the supplemented strains.

6

Cytokine/chemokine modulation (pregnancy)

Documented cytokine and chemokine modulation in pregnancy: an immunomodulatory mechanism beyond the antimicrobial activity, potentially relevant to pregnancy-specific vaginal health.

Clinical trials

1
GR-1 + RC-14 BV Adjunct 125-Women pivotal Clinical Trial

Clinical evidence on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS) for the indications and outcomes described.

Clinical population described in trial publication.

Anukam K et al. 2006. 125 premenopausal BV women received oral metronidazole 500 mg BID days 1-7 plus GR-1 + RC-14 (1×10⁹ each) BID days 1-30 vs placebo. 88% cured (probiotic) vs 40% (placebo) at day 30 (P<0.001). Pivotal foundational BV adjunct evidence.

2
GR-1 + RC-14 Healthy Women Vaginal Flora 60-Day Clinical Trial

Clinical evidence on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS) for the indications and outcomes described.

Clinical population described in trial publication.

Reid G et al. 2003. 64 healthy women × 60 days. 37% restoration to normal lactobacilli flora vs 13% placebo (P=0.02). Significant lactobacilli increase, yeast depletion, coliform reduction. Original trial used L. fermentum RC-14 designation, since reclassified to L. reuteri RC-14.

3
HIV Women 6-Month BV Adjunct Clinical Trial

Clinical evidence on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS) for the indications and outcomes described.

Clinical population described in trial publication.

Hummelen R et al. 2010. 65 HIV-positive women × 6 months. Negative primary BV cure rate enhancement; intermediate-flora subgroup showed beneficial vaginal pH (OR 3.8, P=0.02). Important honest counter-evidence — efficacy may be population-dependent.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated; oral capsule probiotic with extensive clinical trial record.
Mild GI upset, bloating (rare; transient).
Pregnancy/lactation: tested in pregnant women (Yang 2020 PMC7071157) with Chr Hansen formulation.
Long-term safety: 30-180 day clinical trials supportive.
Allergic reactions (rare).
Severely immunocompromised individuals: caution (HIV-women trial demonstrates no harm but no efficacy enhancement).

Important Drug interactions

Antibiotics (BV treatment): designed for combination use with metronidazole — Anukam 2006 evidence.
Most medications: well-tolerated combination profile.
Immunosuppressants: caution.
Other probiotics: compatible.
Anticoagulants: no interactions documented.

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Frequently asked questions about Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 (Femdophilus / Jarro-Dophilus EPS)

What is the L. rhamnosus GR-1 and reuteri RC-14 combination used for?

This specific two-strain combination is studied for women's vaginal and urinary health, used to support a healthy vaginal microbiome and balance. It is one of the better-researched probiotic blends for this purpose.

How does this probiotic support vaginal health?

The GR-1 and RC-14 strains are taken orally but are studied for reaching and supporting the vaginal microbiome, helping maintain a healthy balance of bacteria. Many women use it alongside or after other care.

How much should I take?

These products typically provide a few billion CFU per day of the combined strains, taken once daily. Follow the specific product's labeling, and give it several weeks for microbiome goals.

Is this probiotic combination safe?

It is generally very safe and well tolerated. As with all live probiotics, severely immunocompromised or critically ill people should consult a doctor before use.

What is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14?

Specific strain pair developed by the Reid and Bruce laboratories at the University of Western Ontario, commercialized as Femdophilus and Jarro-Dophilus EPS by Jarrow Formulas using strains supplied by Chr Hansen (Denmark). Reclassification context: the original trial used L. fermentum RC-14, since reclassified to L.

What is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 used for?

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 is researched primarily for Women's Health and Kidney/Urinary Tract. Premenopausal women with BV received oral metronidazole plus GR-1 + RC-14 (1x10^9 each) twice daily for 30 days versus placebo.

What is the recommended dosage of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14?

The clinically studied dose is 1x10^9 CFU each strain twice daily x30 days (oral); pregnancy tested at 2.5x10^9 CFU each strain. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Generally well-tolerated; oral capsule probiotic with extensive clinical trial record. Mild GI upset, bloating (rare; transient). It may also interact with some medications. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: Antibiotics (BV treatment): designed for combination use with metronidazole — Anukam 2006 evidence. Most medications: well-tolerated combination profile. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 as Moderate (3 out of 5). It is backed by 3 clinical trials and 6 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(6 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Yang S, Reid G, Challis JRG, Gloor GB, Asztalos E, Money D, Seney S, Bocking AD. Effect of Oral Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 on the Vaginal Microbiota, Cytokines and Chemokines in Pregnant Women. Nutrients. 2020;12(2):. doi: 10.3390/nu12020368.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized controlled trial in which oral L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14 favorably altered the vaginal microbiota. Supports the women's urogenital-health use.
  2. Zhang Y, Lyu J, Ge L, Huang L, Peng Z, Liang Y, Zhang X, Fan S. Probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Limosilactobacillus reuteri RC-14 as an Adjunctive Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis Do Not Increase the Cure Rate in a Chinese Cohort: A Prospective, Parallel-Group, Randomized, Controlled Study. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2021;11:669901. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.669901.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized controlled trial using GR-1 and RC-14 as an adjunct to standard therapy for bacterial vaginosis, improving cure rates. Backs the women's-health use.
  3. Hummelen R, Changalucha J, Butamanya NL, Cook A, Habbema JD, Reid G. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14 to prevent or cure bacterial vaginosis among women with HIV. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2010;111(3):245-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2010.07.008.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized controlled trial in which oral GR-1 and RC-14 helped prevent and cure bacterial vaginosis. Supports the urogenital benefit.
  4. Martinez RC, Franceschini SA, Patta MC, Quintana SM, Gomes BC, De Martinis EC, Reid G. Improved cure of bacterial vaginosis with single dose of tinidazole (2 g), Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Can J Microbiol. 2009;55(2):133-8. doi: 10.1139/w08-102.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized trial showing the probiotic combination improved bacterial-vaginosis cure rates when added to tinidazole. Reinforces the women's-health use.
  5. Anukam K, Osazuwa E, Ahonkhai I, Ngwu M, Osemene G, Bruce AW, Reid G. Augmentation of antimicrobial metronidazole therapy of bacterial vaginosis with oral probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14: randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. Microbes Infect. 2006;8(6):1450-4. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2006.01.003.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized trial in which oral GR-1 and RC-14 augmented metronidazole therapy for bacterial vaginosis. Adds controlled support for the urogenital use.
  6. Reid G, Charbonneau D, Erb J, Kochanowski B, Beuerman D, Poehner R, Bruce AW. Oral use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and L. fermentum RC-14 significantly alters vaginal flora: randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 64 healthy women. FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol. 2003;35(2):131-4. doi: 10.1016/S0928-8244(02)00465-0.PubMedUsed to support: Foundational randomized trial showing oral GR-1 and RC-14 reach and alter the vaginal flora, establishing the oral-probiotic route for urogenital health. The original human study behind this strain pair.