Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 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
1Suárez Angamos Hospital, Angamos Este Avenue 261, Miraflores, Lima, Peru, 18.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|August 22, 2013
Summary
Probiotics may effectively treat persistent diarrhea in children, reducing its duration by over four days. This intervention shows promise for improving outcomes in pediatric cases of prolonged diarrhea.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Persistent diarrhea is a significant cause of mortality in developing nations, accounting for a substantial proportion of diarrhea-related deaths.
- Probiotics are being investigated as a potential therapeutic intervention for managing persistent diarrhea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the efficacy of probiotic agents in treating persistent diarrhea among children.
- To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of probiotics for persistent diarrhea.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases (Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS) up to December 2012.
- Eligibility criteria included RCTs comparing probiotics with placebo or no probiotic in children diagnosed with persistent diarrhea.
- Data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and meta-analysis were performed using a fixed-effect model.
Main Results:
- Four RCTs involving 464 participants were included in the meta-analysis.
- Probiotics significantly reduced the duration of persistent diarrhea by an average of 4.02 days (95% CI: 3.43 to 4.61).
- A reduction in stool frequency and a shorter hospital stay were observed in some trials, with no reported adverse events.
Conclusions:
- Limited evidence suggests that probiotics may be effective in treating persistent diarrhea in children.
- Further high-quality research is warranted to confirm these findings and establish optimal probiotic regimens.
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...
01:17Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Chronic bowel diseases are a group of long-term conditions affecting the digestive tract, characterized by inflammation and damage to the gut lining. These conditions primarily include irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...