OptiBiotix begins clinical trial of WellBiome to improve cardiac surgery recovery and lower NHS costs

OptiBiotix Health (LSE:OPTI) has initiated a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study in partnership with Hull University Teaching Hospital NHS Trust to evaluate whether its patented prebiotic fibre complex, WellBiome, can enhance outcomes for cardiac surgery patients while reducing treatment costs for the NHS. The trial will involve up to 60 participants receiving six weeks of supplementation prior to surgery, with researchers assessing intensive care duration, total hospital stay and post-operative complication rates, alongside a detailed economic analysis of potential cost savings.

WellBiome, developed in collaboration with UK academic institutions, is designed to support gut microbiome diversity and carries approved health claims in both Europe and the United States covering areas including gut, bone, cardiovascular, muscle, brain and psychological health. Positive clinical and economic findings could support adoption of the product as part of standard preoperative care within the NHS, potentially expanding OptiBiotix’s presence in clinically validated microbiome-based healthcare solutions and creating opportunities for wider medical use.

The company’s near-term outlook remains constrained by ongoing losses and continued cash outflows despite strong revenue growth reported in 2024. Technical indicators also remain weak, reflecting a prolonged share price downtrend and negative momentum. A debt-free balance sheet provides some financial stability, though valuation remains challenging given negative earnings and the absence of dividend income.

More about OptiBiotix Health

OptiBiotix Health plc is a UK-based life sciences company specialising in microbiome-focused technologies aimed at preventing and managing human disease. Its product portfolio includes prebiotic ingredients such as SlimBiome, WellBiome, SweetBiotix and Microbiome Modulators, alongside interests in probiotics and skincare applications, targeting the rapidly expanding global market for gut health and metabolic wellness solutions.