THE USE OF PROBIOTICS IN ACUTE DIARRHOEA MANAGEMENT - AN EVIDENCE-BASED ANALYSIS

Introduction Probiotics are defined as ‘live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. Gastrointestinal problems are a major reason for consultation and acute diarrhoea (AD) is a disease with high prevalence and incidence that effects all social classes and ages. AD represents a problem, with great social impact, largely recognized in the Primary Care setting. Beside prevention, it is important to know how to aproach the disease and the utility os probiotics. Objectives Review the existent evidence concerning the use os probiotics in the acute diarrhoea threatment Metodology We performed a research of data in PUBMED using as key-words (MESH terms): Acute "Diarrhea” and “probiotics”. Articles were limited to systmatic reviews from the last 5 years, in humans, adults with +19 years. The selection process was made through abstract evaluation and excluded studies that were not related to the treatment of AD in adults with no important co-morbilitys. To attribute a level of evidence (LE), we used the SORT Scale (Strenght Of Recommendation Taxonomy) of American Academy of Family Physicians. Results We found 4 articles with reference to consistent and beneficial response to probiotics but their exact efficacy in treatment of acute diarrhea is uncertain.(SORT B) . In one study the use of Saccharomyces boulardii shortened duration of diarrhea that result in social and economic benefits. (LE=2) Conclusion Probiotics may reduce duration of diarrhea however more research is still needed to support the use of probiotics.