What is it about?
Probiotics and prebiotics are widely available and are increasingly used by the public, often without consulting a physician. This makes pharmacists an important source of advice about their safe and appropriate use. We surveyed 400 pharmacists in Palestine to examine their knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding probiotics and prebiotics. Most pharmacists had moderate knowledge and generally positive attitudes, but important knowledge gaps remained. More than half reported receiving no specific education on probiotics or prebiotics, while the vast majority were interested in learning more. The findings highlight an opportunity to strengthen evidence-based education and counseling in pharmacy practice.
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Why is it important?
Pharmacists are often among the most accessible healthcare professionals for people seeking advice about probiotics, prebiotics and other non-prescription products. In our study, 70% of pharmacists reported having recommended probiotics, yet 57% had received no specific education on probiotics or prebiotics. This gap between clinical engagement and formal education matters. Strengthening practice-oriented training—particularly around indications, safety, patient selection and interpretation of evidence—could support more consistent, evidence-based counseling and safer use of these increasingly popular products.
Perspectives
The most striking finding was not simply that knowledge gaps existed, but that pharmacists were already actively engaged with these products. Most expressed positive attitudes and willingness to recommend probiotics, while formal education and access to evidence-based information remained limited. This suggests that continuing professional development should move beyond basic definitions and focus on practical questions pharmacists encounter in everyday practice: Which products have evidence? For which indications? For which patients? And when should pharmacists avoid recommending them?
Dr Dala Daraghmeh
Al-Quds University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Pharmacists Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Probiotics and Prebiotics: A Cross-Sectional Study from Palestine, PLOS One, June 2026, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0350648.
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