CHICAGO—Administration of the probiotic formula (VSL#3) can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children and adolescents (J Pediatric Gastroenterol Nutr. July 2010;51(1):24-30. DOI: 10.1097/MPG.0b013e3181ca4d95). IBS is a common gastrointestinal condition, estimated to affect up to 14 percent of adolescents, with symptoms including cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea.
In a trial coordinated out of the University of Chicago, researchers from seven pediatric gastroenterology divisions aimed to determine the efficacy of VSL#3 (from VSL Pharmaceuticals, sold in the United States through Sigma-Tau) in a population of children affected by IBS. Children aged 4 to 18 years (n=59) were assessed by a questionnaire for a two-week period at baseline. The intervention was placebo or VSL#3 for six weeks, followed by a two-week washout and crossover to the other treatment.
While placebo was effective in some parameters and in as many as half of the patients, VSL#3 was significantly superior to it in the primary endpoint, the subjective assessment of relief of symptoms. Active intervention was also significantly superior in three of four secondary endpoints: abdominal pain/discomfort, abdominal bloating/gassiness and family assessment of life disruption. The researchers concluded VSL#3 was safe and effective at addressing symptoms and improving quality of life in children with IBS.
“There is evidence that some probiotics, such as VSL#3, have a beneficial role in the dietary management of children and teenagers suffering with IBS," said Stefano Guandalini, M.D., the chief investigator and chief of the Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the University of Chicago. “This has the potential to make a real difference for kids who suffer from pain, bloating and discomfort of IBS."