Gut microbiota alters drug metabolism and therapeutic outcomes

Fusheng Guo, Yingjie Bai, and Xiaoguang Lei* Cell Host & Microbe, 34 (7), 1262-1272 (2026) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2026.06.001. The human gut microbiota is now established as a vital contributor to drug metabolism and therapeutic efficacy. Nevertheless, the interaction between gut microbes and pharmaceutical agents is inherently complex, posing significant challenges to the use of the microbiota to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy. Gaining a deeper understanding of the complex role of the gut microbiota in regulating drug metabolism and influencing treatment outcomes is essential for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, prognostic stratification, and therapeutic approaches. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in gut microbiota-mediated drug metabolism and effectiveness and assesses the potential of targeting microbial communities to improve drug performance. The insights provided here are set to advance personalized medicine and promote the development of microbiota-targeted therapies.

Fusheng Guo, Yingjie Bai, and Xiaoguang Lei*

Cell Host & Microbe, 34 (7), 1262-1272 (2026)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2026.06.001.

The human gut microbiota is now established as a vital contributor to drug metabolism and therapeutic efficacy. Nevertheless, the interaction between gut microbes and pharmaceutical agents is inherently complex, posing significant challenges to the use of the microbiota to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy. Gaining a deeper understanding of the complex role of the gut microbiota in regulating drug metabolism and influencing treatment outcomes is essential for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, prognostic stratification, and therapeutic approaches. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in gut microbiota-mediated drug metabolism and effectiveness and assesses the potential of targeting microbial communities to improve drug performance. The insights provided here are set to advance personalized medicine and promote the development of microbiota-targeted therapies.