[Variation of intestinal fermentative profile after sequential therapy with rifaximin/probiotics].

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

There is evidence suggesting that intestinal microbiota plays a role in the development of irritable bowel syndrome. Its activity can be indirectly assessed using the lactulose breath test. Antibiotics like rifaximin or probiotics can be used as therapeutic options for patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Our purpose was to evaluate the efficacy of a sequential treatment with rifaximin and probiotics in these patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

We prospectively evaluated patients with diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome according to Rome III criteria. Included patients had to fill in a questionnaire in order to assess their symptoms severity. A lactulose breath test was also performed in each case and a curve with the results of hydrogen concentration and time was elaborated. Then, the area under the curve was calculated After initial evaluation, patients received a seven-day treatment with rifaximin, followed by a ten-day course of probiotics. Thirty days after completion of treatment a new lactulose breath test along with a questionnaire were performed.

RESULTS:

We included 15 patients and 93% experienced a significant improvement of their symptoms as well as a significant reduction of the lactulose breath test values.

CONCLUSION:

Sequential treatment with rifaximin/probiotics seems to be effective for symptom and fermentative profile improvement in irritable bowel syndrome patients.

• Authors: Guillermo Dima, Daniel Peralta, Abel Novillo, Juan Lasa, Horacio Besasso, Luis Soifer
• Journal: Acta gastroenterologica Latinoamericana (Acta Gastroenterol Latinoam) Vol. 42 Issue 2 Pg. 99-104 (Jun 2012) ISSN: 0300-9033 [Print] Argentina
• Vernacular Title: Variaciones del perfil fermentativo intestinal frente al uso de un esquema terapéutico secuencial: rifaximina/probiótico.
• PMID: 22876711 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Gastrointestinal Agents
• Rifamycins
• Rifaximin

Topics

• Breath Tests (methods)
• Female
• Fermentation (drug effects, physiology)
• Gastrointestinal Agents (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (drug therapy, physiopathology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Pilot Projects
• Probiotics (therapeutic use)
• Prospective Studies
• Rifamycins (therapeutic use)
• Rifaximin
• Severity of Illness Index
• Surveys and Questionnaires
• Treatment Outcome