Probiotic studies presented at ACG
 NewsWise reports the results of 3 studies presented during the American College of Gastroenterology’s 73rd Annual Scientific Meeting in Orlando.
Highlights of the reports on probiotics used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) follow.
Probiotic review
- 19 studies in 1628 IBS patients were reviewed.
- Probiotics are effective in IBS.
- But it’s not clear whether 1 probiotic or combinations of probiotics are required.
Effect of a multi-strain probiotic on the frequency of diarrhea
- 84 IBS patients with diarrhea were studied for 28 days.
- Bowel habits in IBS patients normalized compared to those who received the placebo — a significant difference.
Children with IBS
- 59 pediatric patients received either a probiotic agent (VSL#3®) or placebo for 6 weeks, and then the other treatment for 6 weeks more.
- Results were based on responses to a questionnaire.
- The probiotic was safe and significantly more effective than placebo in alleviating IBS symptoms (abdominal pain/discomfort, bloating, stool dysfunction) in children and teenagers.
10/6/08 14:59 JR