The effect of probiotics on childhood constipation: a randomized controlled double blind clinical trial

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Existing research on probiotics for childhood constipation yields inconsistent results.
• This study addresses the need for clearer evidence on probiotic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics as an adjunct therapy for constipation in children.
• To compare outcomes in children receiving lactulose plus probiotics versus lactulose plus placebo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 56 children aged 4-12 years with constipation.
• Participants received daily lactulose with either Protexin (probiotic) or placebo for four weeks.
• Outcomes measured included stool frequency, consistency, abdominal pain, fecal incontinence, and weight gain.

Main Results:

• Forty-eight children completed the study.
• Significant improvements in stool frequency (P=0.042) and consistency (P=0.049) were observed by week four.
• Early improvements in fecal incontinence (P=0.030) and abdominal pain (P=0.017) at week one were not significant by week four.
• Significant weight gain was noted by week one in the probiotic group.

Conclusions:

• Probiotics play a beneficial role in enhancing stool frequency and consistency in constipated children by the end of a four-week treatment period.
• While short-term symptom relief was observed, long-term benefits require further investigation.