Probiotic safe and effective in treating children with IBS

Probiotics might improve quality of life and multiple symptoms in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Because few data exist on the safety and effectiveness of IBS treatment in children, a recent study was conducted to look at the effects of the probiotic VSL #3. The study was presented at the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting and Postgraduate Course by lead investigator Stefano Guandalini, MD, professor of pediatrics at the University of Chicago, in Illinois.

Dr. Guandalini said that, "in children, we don't have a lot of drugs or options of treatment that are as safe as probiotics." He continued: "Probiotics is a huge area of scientific interest, and this particular combination of VSL #3 has been shown to be useful in other clinical settings. So there are conceptual reasons to expect that they should be beneficial and effective in children as well."

In this double-blind crossover trial, children aged 4 to 11 years were treated once a day; children aged 12 to 18 years received doses twice a day. At the end of the study, Dr. Guandalini's team found that not only was the probiotic agent safe, it also achieved a statistically significant improvement over placebo in reduction in symptoms. "There was quite a dramatic slope of improvement there," said Dr. Guandalini. SGARC symptom score decreased from 4.0 at baseline to 2.3 after 6 weeks with VLS #3, and from 4.0 at baseline to 3.3 with placebo. Abdominal pain/discomfort decreased from 2.6 to 1.2 after 6 weeks with VLS #3, and from 2.1 to 1.6 with placebo. Abdominal bloating/gasiness decreased from 2.9 to 1.1 after 6 weeks with VLS #3, and from 2.2 to 1.5 with the placebo.

For family assessment of quality of life, no patient recorded any adverse effects. He continued: "Unfortunately, we have a dreadful situation in terms of therapies for adults with IBS. And for children, it's even worse. [This study] provides more evidence for the efficacy of probiotics. It's an excellent first step." The study did not receive commercial support. Dr. Guandalini disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

Bonnie - In select cases, I have found VSL#3 to be effective for this issue as well. I have referred to Dr. Guandalini for years. He is wonderful. We have one of the top pediatric gastroenterologists in the world right in our own backyard.