Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
08:38
Novel Production Protocol for Small-scale Manufacture of Probiotic Fermented Foods
Published on: September 10, 2016
Probiotics for treating persistent diarrhoea in children
Guillermo Bernaola Aponte1, Carlos Alfonso Bada Mancilla, Nilton Yhuri Carreazo Pariasca
1Suárez Angamos Hospital, Angamos Este Avenue 261, Miraflores, Lima, Peru, 18.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|November 12, 2010
Summary
Probiotics may effectively reduce the duration of persistent diarrhea in children. This systematic review found limited evidence, but no adverse events were reported in the analyzed trials.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Persistent diarrhea causes a significant proportion of diarrhea-related deaths in developing countries.
- Probiotics are being explored as a potential treatment for persistent diarrhea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in treating persistent diarrhea in children.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted.
- Searches included major databases (Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS) and trialist contact.
- Two reviewers assessed eligibility, risk of bias, and extracted data; fixed-effect model was used for analysis.
Main Results:
- Four RCTs with 464 participants were included; one had a low risk of bias.
- Meta-analysis indicated probiotics reduced persistent diarrhea duration by an average of 4.02 days (95% CI: 3.43 to 4.61).
- Probiotics also reduced stool frequency and potentially hospital stay, with no reported adverse events.
Conclusions:
- Limited evidence suggests probiotics may be effective for treating persistent diarrhea in children.
- Further high-quality research is warranted to confirm these findings.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Probiotics
Probiotics are live, non-pathogenic microorganisms that confer health benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem, and the balance of this microbiota is crucial for digestive and systemic health. Among the most extensively studied and utilized probiotics are species formerly classified within the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These organisms not only naturally colonize the human gut but are also consumed through...
01:17Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS
Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a subtype of IBS characterized primarily by frequent, loose, or watery stools, abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort. Therapeutic approaches to managing IBS-D include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and pharmaceutical interventions.
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
01:18Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Antimicrobials as Antidiarrheal Agents
Acute diarrhea, a common gastrointestinal disturbance, is characterized by the rapid evacuation of fluid stools, leading to an excessive weight in fluid. This condition typically arises from disorders affecting intestinal water and electrolyte transport. It can be triggered by an increased osmotic load within the intestine, excessive secretion of electrolytes and water, mucosal exudation of protein and fluid, or altered intestinal motility. The primary risks of acute diarrhea are dehydration...
01:20Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Adsorbents as Antidiarrheal Agents
Diarrhea is characterized by the occurrence of frequent, watery bowel movements. Various factors can trigger diarrhea, including viral or bacterial infections, foodborne illnesses, side effects from certain medications, and underlying digestive disorders. If not adequately managed, diarrhea can lead to complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies. Severe diarrhea can lead to significant weight loss, malnutrition, and weakened immune function.
Adsorbents...
Adsorbents...
01:21Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS
Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
01:21Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics
Antibiotics have revolutionized modern medicine by saving countless lives from bacterial infections. However, their widespread use has inadvertently harmed the delicate balance of the human gut microbiota. The gut microbiota, a complex community of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, immune responses, and maintaining intestinal health. Antibiotics, especially broad-spectrum types, disrupt this ecosystem by eradicating both harmful and beneficial...