Evidence have shown benefits of gut flora modulation in treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but few reports are available on the effects of multistrain probiotics and there are few reports available in this regard from our society. Thus, we investigated if probiotics are effective in our patients as well. We hypothesize that the multistrain probiotic Balance containing seven bacteria species including Lactobacillus strains, Bifidobacterium strains, and Streptococcus thermophiles reduces the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Enrollment
132
Patients in the probiotic group received the probiotic compound Balance® (Protexin Co., Somerset, UK) or similar placebo, twice daily after meal for 14 consecutive days. Balance® capsules contains seven bacteria species including Lactobacillus strains (L. casei, L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus, and L. bulgaricus), Bifidobacterium strains (B. breve and B. longum), and Streptococcus thermophiles. Total viable count (TVC) is 1 x 108 CFU/per capsule. Other Ingredients are Fructo-oligosaccharide as prebiotic, magnesium stearate, and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.
Patients in the placebo group received the placebo capsule twice daily after meal for 14 consecutive days.
Department of Gastroenterology, Alzahra Hospital
Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain was assessed by Rome III questionnaire at baseline and then after 6 weeks
Time frame: Up to 6 weeks
Quality of Life
Quality of life was assessed by the IBS-QOL questionnaire at baseline and then after 6 weeks.
Time frame: Up to 6 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.