Systematic review with meta-analysis: the efficacy of prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics and antibiotics in irritable bowel syndrome
Ford AC, Harris LA, Lacy BE, Quigley EMM, Moayyedi P
Published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 53 randomized controlled trials of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics in adults with irritable bowel syndrome
Key Findings
Probiotics as a group reduced persistent IBS symptoms (RR of symptoms not improving 0.79, 95% CI 0.70-0.89) and improved global symptoms and abdominal pain; no individual species or strain could be identified as superior.
Conclusions
Probiotics are modestly effective in IBS overall, but the evidence does not identify which strain, dose or combination to use.
Limitations
Marked heterogeneity, many small trials with unclear risk of bias, funnel plot asymmetry suggesting publication bias.
Supplements Studied
Probiotics appear to be an effective treatment for IBS, although which individual species and strains are the most beneficial remains unclear.
Evidence for prebiotics in irritable bowel syndrome remains insufficient to recommend their routine use.
Outcomes Measured
Probiotics appear to be an effective treatment for IBS, although which individual species and strains are the most beneficial remains unclear.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic; several authors report industry consultancy
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