This research explores the impact of non-antibiotic prescription drugs on the gut microbiome and susceptibility to infections. By analyzing data from over one million individuals, the study identifies specific medications, such as the cardiac drug digoxin, that increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections. The researchers then validate these findings in mouse models, demonstrating how digoxin alters gut microbiome composition and weakens immune defenses against pathogens like Salmonella. Ultimately, the findings highlight a novel mechanism involving a specific β-defensin that, when induced by digoxin, reduces beneficial bacteria and increases vulnerability to infection.

References:

• Kumar A, Sun R, Habib B, et al. Identification of medication–microbiome interactions that affect gut infection[J]. Nature, 2025: 1-10.