Meta-analysis of the efficacy of probiotics to treat diarrhea.

Fujie Wang, Ting Zhao, Weiwei Wang, Qianqian Dai, Xianghua Ma

Journal: Medicine 2022;101(38):e30880

PMID: 36197181

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Plain Language Summary

Probiotics may supplement the intestinal microbiota and improve its microbiota characteristics. The effects of probiotics include improvement of mucosal barrier function, promotion of visceral hypersensitivity, effects on gastrointestinal motility, and regulation of immune responses. The aim of this study was to collect the published randomized controlled trials of probiotics in the treatment of diarrhoea and to strictly evaluate and systematically analyse them, in order to provide a basis for the clinical application of probiotics. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 publications with a total of 1585 patients. Results show that probiotics are safe and effective for improving the diarrhoea and related discomfort. Authors conclude that probiotic supplements may be a possible solution for the treatment of diarrhoea.

Abstract

BACKGROUND

To collect the published trials of probiotics in the treatment of diarrhea and to strictly evaluate and systematically analyze the efficacy of probiotics use for the prevention and treatment of patients with diarrhea.

METHODS

We searched domestic and foreign literature published between January 2016 and July 2022 to find randomized control trials that used probiotics to treat diarrhea. Only studies published in English were considered. The quality of the included literatures was assessed by using the methods provided in the Cochrane Handbook. Valid data were extracted and analyzed by meta- analysis using the Software RevMan5.2.

RESULTS

Total 16 trials and 1585 patients were included. The results of the meta- analysis showed that in comparison with the simple Western medicine treatment group or placebo, the added use of probiotics could improve stool frequency, stool morphology, and related irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The added use of probiotics can further improve clinical outcomes in the patients with diarrhea; however, the implementation of larger and higher quality clinical trials is necessary to verify this conclusion.

Address: Nutritional Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.; Department of Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.; Nutritional Department, Xuzhou Cancer Hospital, Xuzhou China.

DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000030880