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Effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG in persistent diarrhea in Indian children: a randomized controlled trial

Sriparna Basu1, Mridula Chatterjee, Sutapa Ganguly

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, North Bengal Medical College and Hospital, Sushrutnagar, Darjeeling, India. drsriparnabasu@rediffmail.com

Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|August 19, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) probiotic significantly reduced persistent diarrhea duration and hospital stay in children. This study highlights LGG

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • Clinical Nutrition

Background:

  • Persistent diarrhea (PD) poses a significant health challenge in pediatric populations.
  • Understanding the efficacy of probiotics in managing PD is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the therapeutic role of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) as a probiotic intervention for persistent diarrhea in children.
  • To assess the impact of LGG supplementation on diarrhea duration, frequency, and hospital stay.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted with 235 pediatric patients diagnosed with persistent diarrhea.
  • Patients received either oral rehydration solution (ORS) alone or ORS plus Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (60 million cells twice daily) for a minimum of 7 days.
  • Data on diarrhea duration, vomiting, and hospital stay were collected and analyzed using statistical methods.

Main Results:

  • The mean duration of diarrhea was significantly lower in the LGG group (5.3 days) compared to the control group (9.2 days).
  • Patients receiving LGG experienced a significantly shorter average hospital stay.
  • No adverse complications were reported with the administered dose of LGG.

Conclusions:

  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supplementation (60 million cells) effectively reduces the duration and frequency of persistent diarrhea and vomiting in children.
  • LGG probiotic therapy can lead to a decreased hospital stay for pediatric patients suffering from persistent diarrhea.
Abstract

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