Exploring Symprove product for the management of GORD symptoms
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A pilot study exploring the use of Symprove for the management of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms
IRAS ID
364448
Contact name
Dipesh Vasant
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 31 days
Research summary
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This causes symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and a sour taste in the mouth. GORD affects 15-20% of the UK population and continues to increase, particularly in younger people. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are prescribed as first-line therapy, but a large proportion of patients with GORD report persistent symptoms. Despite the risks associated with long-term use of PPIs, long-term PPI use is common. More recently, the gut microbiome has been suggested to play a role in GORD. Gut microbiome targeted therapies, such as probiotics, may be therefore considered a novel strategy for GORD symptom management.
The aim of our pilot study is to assess the impact of a gut supplement called Symprove on GORD symptoms. Symprove is a water-based solution that contains billions of live and active bacteria, which can help stimulate the good bacteria already in the gut. It has shown efficacy across several clinical groups including irritable bowel syndrome and Parkinson’s disease, as well as vulnerable clinical groups, including children.
This will be a 6-week non-randomised study, which involves one study visit and six weekly follow-up calls. All participants will receive Symprove delivered to their home to take once a day. Participants will complete two questionnaires (RESQ-7, IBS-SSS) at the Baseline study visit. The same questionnaires will be completed over the phone at each follow-up call. Any adverse events will be recorded throughout the study. We will recruit 70 participants, aged 18-65, with GORD symptoms through the neurogastroenterology unit at Wythenshawe Hospital.
The study is sponsored by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and funded by Symprove Ltd.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NW/0102
Date of REC Opinion
4 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion