Efficacy and Safety of Probiotic versus Conventional Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract Background Irritable bowel syndrome is a gastrointestinal syndrome characterized by chronic abdominal pain and a change in intestinal habits without any organic cause. It affects 11% of the world-wide population. irritable bowel syndrome reduces health-related quality of life and leads to a significant economic healthcare burden. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of probiotics in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. Patients and Methods A randomized controlled clinical trial in Gastroenterology and Hepatology outpatient clinic at: Ain Shams University Hospitals for 6 months from November 2020 till April, 2021. 120 Person were included in this study divided into 2 group: Group 1:60 patient with irritable bowel syndrome received conventional treatment and and Lactobacillus Acidophilus probiotics. Group 2: 60 patient with irritable bowel syndrome received conventional treatment. Results There was a significant increase of passage of gas in group 1 than in group 2 but no significant difference in between group 1 and group 2 regarding stool consistency, mucus with stool, abdominal pain, Bloating and passage of stools. There was 46.7% in group 1 and 55% in group 2 had a very good treatment success with no significant difference in between. Regarding to the treatment success in group 1, there were 46.7% in group 1 had a very good treatment success, 33.3% had a good treatment success and 20% had poor response. There was 80% in group 1 had a very good overall tolerability to probiotic treatment. Conclusion This study shows moderate evidence for the use and safety of probiotics in irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics provide a new strategy as a safer treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. In general, the use of Probiotics has been successful in practice, especially for symptom control and maintenance of remission in these entities. However, it is necessary to take into account the specific condition of the patient and their comorbidities to make informed decisions about management.