Abstract
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is characterized by an abnormally high concentration of bacteria in the small bowel, and is often associated with abdominal pain, bloating, and/or stool changes. Antibiotics, prebiotics, and probiotics have been considered as treatment options for individuals with SIBO. The aim of this literature review was to evaluate the evidence supporting antibiotic therapy for SIBO treatment. A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was performed, and 13 studies were included for analysis. The analysis of the available data suggests that antibiotics, particularly rifaximin, may be effective in normalizing breath tests and improving gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with SIBO.