Adequate relief in a treatment trial with IBS patients: a prospective assessment

Effectiveness of a Balanced Nine-Strain Synbiotic in Primary-Care Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients-A Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

The aim of the study was to characterize effects of a multi-strain synbiotic in patients with moderate to severe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) of all stool form types. A total of 202 adult IBS patients were randomized (1:1) and after a four-week treatment-free run-in phase and were treated either with the synbiotic or a placebo for 12 weeks. The primary endpoints were the assessment of the severity of IBS symptoms (IBS-SSS) and the improvement of IBS global symptoms (IBS-GIS). Secondary endpoints comprised adequate relief (IBS-AR scale), stool form type (Bristol Stool Form Scale), bowel movements, severity of abdominal pain and bloating, stool pressure, feeling of incomplete stool evacuation, and adverse events. A total of 201 patients completed the study. Synbiotic treatment, in comparison to placebo, significantly improved IBS-SSS and IBS-GIS scores. At the end of the treatment, 70% of patients in the synbiotic group achieved adequate relief. After 12 weeks of treatment, the secondary endpoints were favorably differentiated in the synbiotic group when compared with the placebo group. Two patients in the synbiotic group reported transient adverse events (headache). The results indicate that treatment of IBS patients with the synbiotic significantly improved all major symptoms of IBS and was well-tolerated. The ClinicalTrials.gov registration was NCT05731232.

Most patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction receive pharmacotherapy with major or moderate drug-gene interactions

BACKGROUND

How variations predicted by pharmacogenomic testing to alter drug metabolism and therapeutic response affect outcomes for patients with disorders of gut- brain interaction is unclear.

AIMS

To assess the prevalence of pharmacogenomics-predicted drug-gene interactions and symptom outcomes for patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction.

METHODS

Patients who were treated in our clinical practice for functional dyspepsia/bowel disorder underwent pharmacogenomic testing. The change in symptoms from baseline to 6 months was compared for patients with variations in CYP2D6 and CYP2C19, which metabolize neuromodulators, and SLC6A4, which encodes the sodium- dependent serotonin transporter.

RESULTS

At baseline, 79 of 94 participants (84%) had at least one predicted major drug- gene interaction, and all 94 (100%) had at least one predicted moderate interaction. For the 44 participants who completed a survey of their symptoms at 6 months, the mean (SD) irritable bowel syndrome-symptom severity score decreased from 284 (71) at baseline to 231 (95) at 6 months (p < 0.001). Among patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the decrease in symptom severity (p = 0.03) and pain (p = 0.002) scores from baseline to 6 months was greater for patients with a homozygous SLC6A4 long/long genotype (n = 30) (ie, increased serotonin transporter activity) than for patients with homozygous short/short or heterozygous long/short genotypes (n = 64). Symptom outcomes were not affected by CYP2D6 or CYP2C19 variations.

CONCLUSIONS

The homozygous SLC6A4 long/long genotype confers better symptom resolution for patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction who take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors than do the homozygous short/short or heterozygous long/short genotypes.

Efficacy of the Enteroadsorbent Silicol®gel in Adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Subtypes IBS-D or Mixed: Observational Open-Label Study

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic gut-brain interaction disorder with limited effective treatment options. Intestinal adsorbents have a high adsorption capacity for gut irritants and may provide nonpharmacological alternatives.

Objectives

This post marketing study is aimed at providing up-to-date evidence to support the safety and efficacy in normal use of an established medical device for IBS treatment.

Methods

In this open-label, observational study, adults with IBS with predominant diarrhoea (IBS-D) or IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M), according to Rome IV criteria, received 4 weeks of treatment with the enteroadsorbent Silicol®gel, a CE-certified, licenced, medical device containing colloidal silicic acid. Eligible participants were assessed at baseline (visit 1; in-clinic) and after 1 (visit 2; telephone), 2 (visit 3; telephone), and 4 (visit 4; in-clinic) weeks of treatment. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with an overall reduction in the IBS severity scoring system (IBS SSS) > 50, representing clinically meaningful improvement. Key secondary endpoints were a reduction in common IBS symptoms and improved quality of life (QoL).

Results

Among the 67 treated participants (IBS-D: 37; IBS-M: 30), 65 completed the study. At visit 4, 83.6% (56/67) of participants achieved a reduction in IBS SSS > 50. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) IBS SSS was 323.4 (55.7) at visit 1 and 160.3 (90.3) at visit 4 (overall change: -163.1 (101.7); 95% confidence interval [CI] 138.3, 187.9, p < 0.001). Compared with visit 1, significant reductions in the severity of all key IBS symptoms and overall improvement in QoL were observed at visit 4 (p < 0.001), with improvements observed from visits 1 and 2.

Conclusions

In this open-label study of participants with IBS-D and IBS-M, Silicol®gel provided clinically significant improvement in IBS symptoms, demonstrating that enteroadsorbents may be clinically beneficial in this population.

Systematic review with meta-analysis: Stress-management interventions for patients with irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common chronic gastrointestinal disorder of unknown pathological origin that is associated with psychological distress and reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We investigated the effects of stress-management for adults with IBS on typical symptoms, HRQoL and mental health. With predefined criteria (patients: adults with IBS; intervention: stress-management; control: care as usual or waitlist; outcome: patient-relevant; study-type: controlled trials), we registered the study with PROSPERO (168030) and searched the main medical databases. Two researchers independently reviewed the publications and assessed the risk of bias using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklist. We performed meta-analysis with homogeneous trials of acceptable quality. After screening 6656 publications, ten suitable randomized trials of acceptable (n = 5) or low methodological quality (n = 5) involving 587 patients were identified. Our meta-analysis showed no effect of stress-management on IBS severity 1-2 months after the intervention (Hedges' g = -0.23, 95%-CI = -0.84 to -0.38, I2  = 86.1%), and after 3-12 months (Hedges' g = -0.77, 95%-CI = -1.77 to -0.23, I2  = 93.3%). One trial found a short-term reduction of symptoms, and one trial found symptom relief in the long-term (at 6 months). One of two studies that examined HRQoL found an improvement (after 2 months). One of two studies that examined depression and anxiety found a reduction of these symptoms (after 3 weeks). Stress-management may be beneficial for patients with IBS regarding the short-term reduction of bowel and mental health symptoms, whereas long-term benefits are unclear. Good quality RCTs with more than 6 months follow-up are needed.

An 8-Week Course of Bifidobacterium longum 35624® Is Associated with a Reduction in the Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the disorders most frequently diagnosed by gastroenterologists. Probiotics are promising tools for the management of IBS. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of a probiotic (Bifidobacterium longum 35624®) in adults (aged 18 or over) with IBS (as defined by the Rome IV criteria). In an open-label, observational, post-market study conducted in Germany, adults with IBS and a prior recommendation for the intake of B. longum 35624® were recruited by family physicians. During the 8-week course of treatment, the study participants filled out a weekly questionnaire that enabled calculation of a total IBS symptom score (TISS, the sum of abdominal pain, bloating, passage of gas, constipation, and diarrhea individual symptom scores) and the well-known IBS severity scoring system (IBS-SSS) score. Thirty-seven patients were included. The course of B. longum 35624® was associated with a significant reduction (43.4%) in the TISS vs. baseline. The mean individual symptom grades for passage of gas and bloating fell significantly from "moderate" at baseline to "very mild to mild" after 8 weeks of treatment, whereas those for abdominal pain and diarrhea fell significantly from "mild to moderate" to "very mild to mild." Over 60% of the participants achieved clinically meaningful reductions in the TISS (> 30%) and the IBS-SSS score (> 50 points). The effectiveness of B. longum 35624® was rated as "good to satisfactory" by study participants and the investigating physicians. One mild adverse event (nausea) was potentially linked to the study treatment. We conclude that an 8-week course of B. longum 35624® was associated with significant, clinically meaningful symptom relief in a typical population of adult patients with IBS.

Efficacy of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics in irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials

Introduction. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects the quality of life of numerous people worldwide.Gap statement. The therapeutic role of gut microbiota modulation in IBS remains controversial.Aim. We aimed to assess the efficacy of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics in patients with IBS.Methodology. We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE up to 1 August 2023, to identify the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics among patients with IBS. Pooled analyses of the effects of probiotics in relieving IBS symptoms were calculated using a random-effects model. Further subgroup analyses were performed by different genera, doses and duration of treatment.Results. Our final analysis included 52 trials involving 6289 IBS patients. Probiotics significantly increased the overall response rate (RR:1.64; P<0.00001), subjective relief rate (RR:1.50; P=0.0002) and abdominal pain relief rate (RR:1.69; P<0.00001). As for specific genera, mixed probiotics (RR:1.41; P=0.0001), Bifidobacterium (RR:1.76; P<0.00001), Lactobacillus (RR:1.97; P=0.0004) and Saccharomyces (RR:1.31; P=0.0004) markedly relieved IBS symptoms. Mixed probiotics (RR:1.31; P=0.005), Lactobacillus (RR:2.22; P=0.04) and Bifidobacterium (RR:1.62; P<0.0001) elevated patients' subjective relief rate. Besides, probiotics effectively relieved the abdominal pain in IBS patients (RR:1.69; P<0.00001). Probiotics appeared to show a remarkable beneficial role at a dose of 109 c.f.u./day or above (RR:1.662; P<0.0001) and started to work at 4 weeks (RR 1.72; P<0.00001). Efficacy of prebiotics and synbiotics in IBS remained uncertain, due to the deficiency of available RCTs.Conclusions. Probiotics have a therapeutic role in IBS. However, the effect of different probiotics varies. The minimal effective dose of probiotics may be 109 c.f.u./day. With appropriate probiotic formula, the therapeutic effect can occur at 4 weeks. These data provide a basis for further research on the optimal probiotic therapy in IBS.

Efficacy and dose response of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND

Probiotics have shown promise in alleviating symptoms of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D); however, the certainty of evidence is low. Well-powered randomized controlled dose-ranging trials are warranted on promising single-strain candidates.

AIM

To investigate the clinical efficacy of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) Lpla33 (DSM34428) in adults with IBS-D.

METHODS

This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center, and dose-ranging study. Three hundred and seven adults, 18-70 years of age, with IBS-D, according to Rome IV criteria, were allocated (1:1:1) to receive placebo or L. plantarum Lpla33 at 1 × 109 (1B) or 1 × 1010 (10B) colony-forming units/d over an 8-wk intervention period. The primary outcome was the change in IBS severity scoring system (IBS-SSS) total score after 8 wk, while secondary and exploratory outcomes included abdominal pain severity, IBS related quality of life, stool and microbial profile, and perceived stress.

RESULTS

IBS-SSS was significantly reduced, after 8 wk, in participants receiving L. plantarum 1B (-128.45 ± 83.30; P < 0.001) and L. plantarum 10B (-156.77 ± 99.06; P < 0.001), compared to placebo (-58.82 ± 74.75). Further, a dose-ranging effect was observed, with a greater absolute reduction in the L. plantarum 10B group (P < 0.05). A reduction in sub-scores related to abdominal pain, abdominal distension, bowel habits, and quality of life was observed in both L. plantarum groups compared to placebo (P < 0.001). Further, 62.5% and 88.4% of participants administered L. plantarum 1B and 10B, respectively, were classified as stool consistency responders based on a reduction in diarrheal stool form, as compared to 26.3% in the placebo group (P < 0.001). In contrast, no significant shifts were observed in microbial diversity.

CONCLUSION

L. plantarum Lpla33 (DSM34428) is well tolerated and improves IBS symptom severity with a dose-ranging effect and a corresponding normalization of bowel habits in adults with IBS-D.

The cost-effectiveness of an indicated blended care intervention in primary care compared to usual care in patients with moderate persistent somatic symptoms

INTRODUCTION

Appropriate treatment for people with an increased risk for developing chronic Persistent Somatic Symptoms (PSS) is of great importance at an early stage to improve quality of life and prevent high costs for society.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an integrated blended care intervention compared to usual care for QALYs, subjective symptom impact and physical and mental health status in patients with moderate PSS.

METHODS

This economic evaluation was conducted alongside a 12-month prospective, multicenter cluster randomized controlled trial in Dutch primary care. 80 participants received the intervention and 80 participants received usual care. Seemingly unrelated regression analyzes were performed to estimate cost and effect differences. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. Bootstrapping techniques were used to estimate uncertainty.

RESULTS

We found no significant difference in total societal costs. Intervention, primary and secondary healthcare and absenteeism costs were higher for the intervention group. The ICER for QALYs demonstrated the intervention was on average less costly and less effective compared to usual care. For the subjective symptom impact and physical health, the ICER indicated that the intervention group was on average less costly and more effective. For mental health, the intervention was on average more costly and less effective.

CONCLUSION

We didn't find an integrated blended primary care intervention to be cost-effective compared to usual care. However, when looking on relevant, but specific outcome measures (subjective symptom impact and physical health) for this population, average costs are found to be lower and the effectiveness found to be higher.

A Digital Self-help Intervention for Atopic Dermatitis: Analysis of Secondary Outcomes From a Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by dry skin, eczematous lesions, and an often severe pruritus. The disease may have a negative effect on quality of life and is also associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Few individuals with AD receive any form of behavioral intervention. Behavioral interventions for AD are potentially efficacious but need to be constructed so that they are safe, credible, and user-friendly. We have previously reported on a feasibility study that demonstrated that a self-management version of a digital intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for AD can potentially be effective in reducing AD symptoms. The aim of this secondary report was to further examine treatment feasibility and preliminary effects on dermatological quality of life, itching sensations, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress.

OBJECTIVE

This is a secondary report on intervention credibility, usability, adverse events, and preliminary effects on secondary measures of a self-management digital intervention for atopic dermatitis.

METHODS

In total, 21 adults with AD, recruited nationwide in Sweden, were assessed by telephone, and used the digital intervention for 8 weeks. Participants were also assessed directly afterward and 3 months after the end of the intervention. There was no therapist guidance. Feasibility indicators included intervention credibility, usability, and possible adverse effects. Other measures included preliminary effects on dermatological quality of life, itching sensations, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress.

RESULTS

The intervention was regarded as credible and no serious adverse events were reported. System usability was, however, found to be below the predetermined cutoff for acceptable usability. Preliminary effects at 3-month follow-up were in the moderate to large range for dermatological quality of life (Cohen d=0.89, 95% CI 0.18-1.56), itching sensations (Cohen d=0.85, 95% CI 0.15-1.52), depressive symptoms (Cohen d=0.78, 95% CI 0.1-1.45), and perceived stress (Cohen d=0.75, 95% CI 0.01-1.36).

CONCLUSIONS

This 8-week self-management digital CBT-based intervention was, together with telephone calls before and after, a feasible intervention for participants with AD. Preliminary effects were promising and should be explored further in a randomized controlled trial. Intervention usability was, however, rated below cutoff scores. Efforts should be made to improve written material to increase usability.

Clinical and Psychological Factors Predict Outcome in Patients With Functional Dyspepsia: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Symptoms of functional dyspepsia (FD) fluctuate over time but there are limited data on the impact of factors on change in dyspepsia symptom severity over time. We aimed to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and psychological factors associated with change in dyspepsia symptom severity.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with FD presenting to a tertiary care center completed questionnaires assessing clinical and psychological symptoms at the time of the initial visit (baseline) and 3- to 6-month follow-up evaluations. FD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were diagnosed using Rome IV criteria. FD severity was measured using patient assessment of gastrointestinal symptom severity. Patient-reported outcome measures information scales were used to assess the severity of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance.

RESULTS

Of 128 FD patients, 64 (50%) also met Rome IV criteria for IBS. In the final multivariable model, lower baseline sleep disturbance, improvement in anxiety scores, absence of IBS, and a lower number of medications taken for gastrointestinal symptoms were associated with improvement in dyspepsia scores (P < .05 for all). Conversely, higher baseline dyspepsia severity was associated with greater improvement in dyspepsia severity at follow-up evaluation (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in FD symptom severity over 3 to 6 months was associated with improvement of anxiety, lower sleep disturbance at baseline, absence of IBS, and higher baseline dyspepsia severity.

A Nonviable Probiotic in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of oral treatment with a nonviable probiotic lysate (BL) of Escherichia coli (DSM 17252) and Enterococcus faecalis (DSM 16440) in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

METHODS

A phase IV, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter (30 study sites), parallel group study was conducted in 389 patients of both sexes with IBS according to Rome III criteria. The treatment period was 26 weeks. The participants were allocated to either placebo or BL after a 2-week baseline period. The primary outcome was based on the European Medicines Agency IBS guideline: improvement in global assessment (GAI) and improvement in abdominal pain.

RESULTS

Patients (BL, n = 191; placebo, n = 198) had similar baseline values and dropout rates. Overall, the response was similar between BL and placebo for IBS-GAI (17.4% and 14.4%, respectively; P = ·4787) and abdominal pain (42.0% and 35.4%, respectively; P = ·1419). Some secondary outcome measures and sensitivity analyses pointed toward potentially higher sensitivity of the abdominal pain measures in diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) but not the other subtypes. For the GAI, no subgroup differences were detected. For IBS-D, post hoc analyses for abdominal pain response over time and stool consistency showed potentially promising effects of BL. Finally, the treatment with BL was well-tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

BL is not effective across all IBS subtypes. However, BL may offer a treatment option for IBS-D that needs verification by an adequately powered drug trial; EudraCT-No.: 2012-002741-38.

Improvement in constipation and diarrhea is associated with improved abdominal pain in patients with functional bowel disorders

BACKGROUND

Abdominal pain is a bothersome and lifestyle limiting symptom in patients with functional bowel disorders. It is associated with decreased quality of life in affected individuals, as well as significant annual healthcare expenditure. Knowledge of specific factors that predict improvement in abdominal pain in those with functional bowel disorders is thus far limited.

METHODS

Consecutive patients presenting for outpatient care at a major academic medical center between October 2017 and March 2020 completed an electronic symptom survey prior to initial clinic visit, and again after 3 months. The Rome IV questionnaires for functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, functional constipation, and functional diarrhea were all included. Additionally, all subjects completed the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Anxiety, Depression, and sleep disturbance questionnaires. Patients with a diagnosis of a Rome IV functional gastrointestinal disorder without any organic cause for symptoms were identified based on both chart review as well as survey response data. Univariable and multivariable analysis was used to assess predictors of improved abdominal pain after 3 months.

KEY RESULTS

180 patients with a mean age of 45.3 years were included in the final analysis. 78.3% of patients were female, and 77.2% met Rome IV criteria for irritable bowel syndrome. On multivariable analysis, improvement in constipation and diarrhea were both independent predictors of improved abdominal pain after 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES

Improvement in constipation and diarrhea both predicted improvement in abdominal pain, suggesting that addressing these factors is central to the management of abdominal pain in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Dietary fibres and IBS: translating functional characteristics to clinical value in the era of personalised medicine

Clinical guidelines in the use of fibre supplementation for patients with IBS provide one-size-fits-all advice, which has limited value. This narrative review addresses data and concepts around the functional characteristics of fibre and subsequent physiological responses induced in patients with IBS with a view to exploring the application of such knowledge to the precision use of fibre supplements. The key findings are that first, individual fibres elicit highly distinct physiological responses that are associated with their functional characteristics rather than solubility. Second, the current evidence has focused on the use of fibres as a monotherapy for IBS symptoms overall without attempting to exploit these functional characteristics to elicit specific, symptom-targeted effects, or to use fibre types as adjunctive therapies. Personalisation of fibre therapies can therefore target several therapeutic goals. Proposed goals include achieving normalisation of bowel habit, modulation of gut microbiota function towards health and correction of microbial effects of other dietary therapies. To put into perspective, bulking fibres that are minimally fermented can offer utility in modulating indices of bowel habit; slowly fermented fibres may enhance the activities of the gut microbiota; and the combination of both fibres may potentially offer both benefits while optimising the activities of the microbiota throughout the different regions of the colon. In conclusion, understanding the GI responses to specific fibres, particularly in relation to the physiology of the individual, will be the future for personalising fibre therapy for enhancing the personalised management of patients with IBS.

Role of serum amitriptyline concentration and CYP2C19 polymorphism in predicting the response to low-dose amitriptyline in irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND

Low-dose amitriptyline (AMT) is an effective treatment for diarrhea-dominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). Its efficacy depends upon its serum concentration and the patient's CYP2C19 genotype.

AIMS

To identify the association between serum AMT and nortriptyline (NT) concentration and CYP2C19 polymorphism and the clinical response in IBS-D patients.

METHODS

Ninety IBS-D patients were treated of AMT for 6 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by the results of the Adequate Relief question each week and an IBS severity scoring system (IBS-SSS) at 0, 3, and 6 weeks. CYP2C19 genotyping was performed by direct sequencing. AMT and NT steady-state serum concentrations were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The CYP2C19 polymorphism exhibited a significant influence on the NT serum concentration but did not predict the clinical efficacy of AMT for treating IBS-D. The NT steady-state and dose-corrected serum concentrations were significantly correlated with an improvement in the IBS-SSS score after 6 weeks, whereas the AMT serum concentration was not correlated with clinical improvement. The cut-off NT steady-state serum concentration of 2.91 ng/ml may help distinguish responders from non-responders.

CONCLUSIONS

NT serum concentration but not CYP2C19 polymorphism may be correlated with the clinical efficacy of AMT for treating IBS-D, and such a response may occur at the upper NT threshold of 2.91 ng/ml.

Open-label placebo vs double-blind placebo for irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT

It is commonly believed that blinding to treatment assignment is necessary for placebos to have an effect. However, placebos administered without concealment (ie, open-label placebos [OLPs]) have recently been shown to be effective in some conditions. This study had 2 objectives: first, to determine whether OLP treatment is superior to no-pill control (NPC) in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and, second, to compare the efficacy of OLP against double-blind placebo (DBP). In a 6-week, 3-arm, randomized clinical trial, participants were randomized in equal proportions to 3 arms: OLP, DBP, or NPC. Two hundred sixty-two adults (72.9% women), with a mean age of 42.0 (SD = 18.1) years, participated in the primary study. The mean improvement on the IBS Severity Scoring System from baseline to the 6-week end point was significantly greater in OLP compared with that in NPC (90.6 vs 52.3, P = 0.038). Open-label placebo and DBP did not differ significantly on IBS Severity Scoring System improvement (100.3 vs 90.6, P = 0.485). Standardized effect sizes were moderate for OLP vs NPC (d = 0.43) and small for OLP vs DBP (d = 0.10). Participants treated with OLP reported clinically meaningful improvements in IBS symptoms that were significantly greater than those on NPC. Open-label placebo and DBP had similar effects that did not differ significantly, suggesting that blinding may not be necessary for placebos to be effective and that OLP could play a role in the management of patients with refractory IBS.

Chinese Herbal Medicine for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Purpose: Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is an important complementary and alternative therapy for the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Previous meta-analyses suggested that CHM is effective for IBS; nonetheless, its effectiveness is inconclusive owing to repeated significance testing. We aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of CHM for IBS through a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA).

Methods: We searched OVID Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science from January 1, 1980, to September 20, 2020. The primary outcome was adequate relief of global IBS symptoms. The secondary outcomes included relief of abdominal pain and treatment-related adverse events. The relative ratio (RR) and required information size (RIS) were calculated for each outcome.

Results: Ten trials recruiting 2,501 participants were included. Seven (70%) trials were at low risk of bias (RoB). Compared with placebo, CHM was associated with a significantly higher proportion of adequate relief of global IBS symptoms [RR 1.76 (95% confidence interval (95%CI), 1.33–2.33); I² = 81.1%; p < 0.001]. The RIS was 1,083 for the primary outcome, and the accrued information size was 1,716. The analysis of the relief of abdominal pain (three trials with 916 participants) showed similar results compared with placebo [RR 1.85 (95%CI, 1.59–2.14); I² = 0%; p < 0.001; RIS = 197 participants]. CHM was associated with a higher proportion of adverse events compared with placebo [RR 1.51 (95%CI, 1.14–2); I² = 0%; p = 0.004].

Conclusion: CHM was effective in relieving IBS symptoms but caused a higher adverse event rate than placebo. TSA analysis confirmed the findings with sufficient information size.

Effect of Low FODMAPs Diet on Irritable Bowel Syndromes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials

We conducted a meta-analysis exploring the effect of a low fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols diet (LFD) on the overall symptoms, quality of life, and stool habits of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. The meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects method. The effect size was presented as weighted standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analyses were conducted to determine the potential effects of covariates on the outcome. Twenty-two papers were included. The LFD group showed a moderate reduction in symptom severity and a slight improvement in quality of life compared to the control group (SMD, −0.53 and 0.24; 95% CI, −0.68, −0.38 and 0.02, 0.47, respectively). IBS symptom improvement was consistent between subgroups stratified according to proportions of female patients, study durations, IBS subtypes, assessment methods, and control interventions. Three studies regarding stool habits change in IBS-D patients showed a significant decrease in stool frequency (mean differences [MD], −5.56/week; 95% CI, −7.40, −3.72) and a significant improvement in stool consistency (MD, −0.86; 95% CI, −1.52, −0.19) in the LFD group compared to the control group. This is the most updated meta-analysis including studies that adopted diverse control interventions such as dietary interventions, supplementation, habitual diets, and lifestyle changes.

[Treatment of IBS with Lactobacillus plantarum 299v: Therapeutic success increases with length of treatment - real-life data of a non-interventional study in Germany]

INTRODUCTION

 The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in clinical practice is frequently challenging. Modulation of the intestinal microbiome as a treatment option is becoming more and more important. The effectiveness of a bacterial strain, Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (LP299V), was previously investigated in placebo-controlled clinical trials in patients with IBS over 4 weeks. The aims of the present non-interventional study were therefore to investigate tolerability and effectiveness of LP299V under everyday conditions and to gain information on long-term treatment.

METHODS

 Data on tolerability and effectiveness of LP299V (1 capsule/day; 1 × 10¹⁰ CFU) were prospectively collected in 25 centers in 221 patients with IBS. The maximal treatment duration was 12 weeks. The survey was carried out using symptom diaries and medical assessments. Changes in frequency and severity of symptoms were compared to baseline and defined the primary endpoint.

RESULTS

 During the 12-week treatment, a significant and continuous reduction of overall symptom score (p < 0.05) was observed. In addition, a significant reduction of severity (S) and frequency (H) of individual symptoms, such as abdominal pain (S: - 67 %, H: - 51 %), flatulence (S: - 61 %, H: - 63 %), diarrhea (S: - 70 %, H: - 32 %) and constipation (S: - 79 %, H: - 6 %) was observed. Urgency and feeling of incomplete evacuation were significantly decreased (p < 0.001). Additionally, quality of life increased significantly (mental well-being: + 110 %, influence on everyday life: -67 %, p < 0.01). Self-assessment identified that long-term treatment with LP299V was tolerated well by 94 % of patients.

CONCLUSION

 In real life, LP299V significantly alleviates the global symptoms of IBS in patients. In order to achieve the maximum effect, long-term use of LP299V (as here 12 weeks) appears to be indicated and is well tolerated.

A dietitian-first gastroenterology clinic results in improved symptoms and quality of life in patients referred to a tertiary gastroenterology service

BACKGROUND

The Dietitian First Gastroenterology Clinic (DFGC) is an initiative that has been established in response to increased gastroenterology clinical demand resulting in increased number of patients waiting outside clinically recommended timeframes for specialist care. In this clinic, a dietitian is the primary contact for eligible patients referred to tertiary gastroenterology services and provides assessment and management strategies for patients under the clinical governance of a gastroenterology consultant. This service has previously been shown to reduce patient wait-times and induce excellent patient satisfaction. Evaluation of models of care need to consider patient health outcomes as a key indicator for overall health service effectiveness. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of DFGC on patient related health outcomes.

METHODS

This study utilised a pretest-posttest design of patients seen in the DFGC who met the diagnostic criteria for irritable bowel syndrome using the Rome IV criteria Consenting participants completed the validated symptom-severity (IBS-SSS) and health-related quality of life (IBSQoL) assessments. Paired sample t-tests were used to analyse differences pre- and post-management in the DFGC. Univariate mixed effects analyses were conducted to examine associations between IBS-SSS, IBSQoL and patient demographics.

RESULTS

A total of 80 of 122 patients seen in the DFGC were recruited and completed baseline data, with 60 (75%) completing follow up assessments. The average participant age was 35.6 years (75% female), and IBS subtypes; IBS-C 15.0%, IBS-D 38.3%, IBS-M 26.7% and IBS-U 20.0%. Participants experienced significant reductions in symptom severity based on IBS-SSS (300.1 vs 151.7; p < 0.001) independent of IBS subtype, age or gender, with 88% (53/60) experiencing a clinically significant improvement. Quality of life significantly improved for all IBS subtypes (p < 0.001) across all subscales except food avoidance (p = 0.11). There was a moderate negative correlation between the changes in symptom severity and quality of life (R = 0.432, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Management in the DFGC provided positive patient health outcomes demonstrated by improvements in symptom severity and QoL.

Effectiveness of a Blended Multidisciplinary Intervention for Patients with Moderate Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms (PARASOL): Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Medically unexplained physical symptoms are an important health problem in primary care, with a spectrum from mild to chronic. The burden of chronic medically unexplained physical symptoms is substantial for patients, health care professionals, and society. Therefore, early identification of patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms is needed in order to prevent chronicity. The preventive screening of medically unexplained physical symptoms (PRESUME) screening method was developed using data from the electronic medical record of the patients' general practitioner and demonstrated its prognostic accuracy to identify patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms. In the next step, we developed a proactive blended and integrated mental health and physical therapy intervention program (PARASOL) to reduce complaints of moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms, stimulate self-management, and prevent chronicity.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of the blended PARASOL intervention on the impact of symptoms and quality of life in patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms compared with usual care. Secondary objectives are to study the effect on severity of physical and psychosocial symptoms, general health, physical behavior, illness perception, and self-efficacy in patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms as well as to determine the cost-effectiveness of the program.

METHODS

This paper presents the study protocol of a multicenter cluster randomized clinical trial. Adult patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms will be identified from electronic medical record data using the PRESUME screening method and proactively recruited for participation in the study. Cluster randomization will be performed at the level of the participating health care centers. In total 248 patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms (124 patients per arm) are needed. The PARASOL intervention is a 12-week blended primary care program consisting of 4 face-to-face consultations with the mental health nurse and 5 physical therapy sessions, supplemented with a Web-based program. The Web-based program contains (1) information modules and videos on self-management and educative themes, (2) videos and instructions on prescribed home exercises, and (3) assignments to gradually increase the physical activity. The program is directed at patients' perception of symptoms as well as modifiable prognostic risk factors for chronicity using therapeutic neuroscience education. It encourages self-management, as well as an active lifestyle using a cognitive behavioral approach and graded activity. Primary outcomes are impact of symptoms and quality of life. Secondary outcomes are severity of physical and psychosocial symptoms, general health, physical behavior, illness perceptions, self-efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. All measurements will be performed at baseline, 3 and 12 months after baseline. Retrospective cost questionnaires will also be sent at 6 and 9 months after baseline and these will be used for the cost-effectiveness analysis.

RESULTS

The intervention has been developed, and the physical therapists and mental health nurses in the participating experimental health care centers have received two days of training on the content of the blended PARASOL intervention. The recruitment of health care centers started in June 2016 and inclusion of patients began in March 2017. Follow-up assessments of patients are expected to be completed in March 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first randomized clinical trial to determine the effectiveness (including cost-effectiveness) of a proactive, blended, and integrated mental health and physical therapy care program for patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms. The findings will help to improve the treatment for patients with moderate medically unexplained physical symptoms and prevent chronicity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Netherlands Trial Register NTR6755; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=6755 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ywporY7u).

Efficacy of individualised diets in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled trial

Background

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often placed on diets guided by food intolerance assays, although these have not been validated. We assessed the effects of individualised diets in patients with IBS guided by a leucocyte activation test.

Methods

This is a parallel-group, double-blind, randomised controlled trial of 58 adults with IBS seen at an academic health centre in Northeast USA. Peripheral venous blood was analysed using a leucocyte activation test; individual foods were reported to produce positive or negative results. Participants were randomised to a 4-week diet with either individualised guidance to eliminate foods with positive assay results and allow foods with negative assay results (intervention), or with individualised guidance, matched in rigour and complexity, to eliminate foods with negative assay results and allow foods with positive assay results (comparison). The primary outcome was between-group differences in the IBS Global Improvement Scale (GIS). Secondary outcomes included reductions in IBS Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) scores and increases in IBS Adequate Relief (AR) and Quality of Life (QOL) scores. An aptamer-based proteomic analysis was conducted in strong responders.

Results

The intervention group had significantly greater increases in mean GIS score after 4 weeks (0.86 vs comparison; 95% CI 0.05 to 1.67; p=0.04) and 8 weeks (1.22 vs comparison; 95% CI 0.22 to 2.22; p=0.02). The intervention group also had significantly greater reductions in mean SSS score at 4 weeks (–61.78 vs comparison; 95% CI –4.43 to –119.14; p=0.04) and 8 weeks (–66.42 vs comparison; 95% CI –5.75 to –127.09; p=0.03). There were no significant differences between intervention and comparison groups in mean AR or QOL scores. A reduction in neutrophil elastase concentration was associated with reduced symptoms.

Conclusions

Elimination diets guided by leucocyte activation tests reduced symptoms. These findings could lead to insights into the pathophysiology of IBS.

Trial registration number

NCT02186743.

Probiotic Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 Reduces Depression Scores and Alters Brain Activity: A Pilot Study in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Probiotics can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but little is known about their effects on psychiatric comorbidities. We performed a prospective study to evaluate the effects of Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 (BL) on anxiety and depression in patients with IBS.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 44 adults with IBS and diarrhea or a mixed-stool pattern (based on Rome III criteria) and mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression (based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale) at McMaster University in Canada, from March 2011 to May 2014. At the screening visit, clinical history and symptoms were assessed and blood samples were collected. Patients were then randomly assigned to groups and given daily BL (n = 22) or placebo (n = 22) for 6 weeks. At weeks 0, 6, and 10, we determined patients' levels of anxiety and depression, IBS symptoms, quality of life, and somatization using validated questionnaires. At weeks 0 and 6, stool, urine and blood samples were collected, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) test was performed. We assessed brain activation patterns, fecal microbiota, urine metabolome profiles, serum markers of inflammation, neurotransmitters, and neurotrophin levels.

RESULTS

At week 6, 14 of 22 patients in the BL group had reduction in depression scores of 2 points or more on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale, vs 7 of 22 patients in the placebo group (P = .04). BL had no significant effect on anxiety or IBS symptoms. Patients in the BL group had a mean increase in quality of life score compared with the placebo group. The fMRI analysis showed that BL reduced responses to negative emotional stimuli in multiple brain areas, including amygdala and fronto-limbic regions, compared with placebo. The groups had similar fecal microbiota profiles, serum markers of inflammation, and levels of neurotrophins and neurotransmitters, but the BL group had reduced urine levels of methylamines and aromatic amino acids metabolites. At week 10, depression scores were reduced in patients given BL vs placebo.

CONCLUSION

In a placebo-controlled trial, we found that the probiotic BL reduces depression but not anxiety scores and increases quality of life in patients with IBS. These improvements were associated with changes in brain activation patterns that indicate that this probiotic reduces limbic reactivity. ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT01276626.

Evaluation of the irritable bowel syndrome severity index in Japanese male patients with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea

Background

Previous studies have indicated that ramosetron, a 5-hydroxytryptamine-3 receptor antagonist, achieves global improvement in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms in male patients with IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D). However, in addition to global assessment it was deemed important to assess “clinically meaningful improvements, focusing on the patient’s chief complaint and the severity of major IBS symptoms”. We performed a randomized, placebo-controlled, phase IV pilot study to explore and examine efficacy variables that allow such evaluation of ramosetron in male patients with IBS-D.

Methods

We performed a prospective study of 115 male outpatients with IBS-D (according to the Rome III criteria), from June 2009 to December 2009 at 25 centers in Japan. After a one-week baseline period, subjects received either 5 μg of ramosetron (n = 47) or placebo (n = 51) once daily for 12 weeks. To evaluate “clinically meaningful improvements focusing on the severity of major IBS symptoms,” the Japanese version of the IBS severity index (IBSSI-J) was used.

Results

Change in IBSSI-J overall score from baseline was −133.5 ± 110.72 in the ramosetron 5 μg group and −108.2 ± 94.44 in the placebo group (P = 0.228) at the last evaluation point. Differences in responder rates for at least a 50% reduction from baseline in IBSSI-J between the ramosetron 5 μg group and the placebo group were over 10%, except Month 1. The monthly responder rate for global assessment of relief of overall IBS symptoms in the ramosetron 5 μg group showed a statistically significant improvement compared to placebo at the second month (44.4% vs 18.4%, P = 0.012). The proportion of patients who had a ≥ 50% reduction in IBSSI-J overall score was 24/37 (64.9%) in the responder group on global assessment and 18/54 (33.3%) in the non-responder group at Week 12.

Conclusions

Further examination will be needed before IBSSI-J can be used in clinical trials of agents for IBS-D. However, this study revealed that response on global assessment was correlated with improvement in the IBSSI-J, suggesting that global assessment reflects improvement of the symptom severity of patients with IBS-D. (Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT00918411 Registered 9 June 2009).

Irritable bowel syndrome symptom severity improves equally with probiotic and placebo

AIM

To determine the effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and quality of life (QoL).

METHODS

In this randomized triple-blind trial, adult IBS volunteers who were recruited according to Rome III criteria received 10⁹ or 10¹⁰ colony-forming units of NCFM or placebo daily for 12 wk. IBS Symptom Severity Score (IBS-SSS), which constituted the primary outcome, and secondary outcomes, including individual IBS symptoms, IBS-related QoL questionnaire, anxiety and depression, defecation frequency, and stool consistency, were assessed at baseline at the end of the 8-wk run-in period, after 4 and 12 wk of intervention, and after a 4-wk washout.

RESULTS

A total of 340 of 391 randomized volunteers completed the trial. IBS-SSS improved over 12 wk of treatment in all treatment groups, decreasing by a mean ± SD of 44.0 ± 80.2, 50.8 ± 82.4, and 48.3 ± 72.2 in the placebo, active low-dose, and active high-dose groups, respectively. Similarly, secondary outcomes did not differ between treatment groups. However, in a post hoc analysis of volunteers with moderate to severe abdominal pain at baseline (VAS > 35/100), the treatment significantly reduced the sensation of abdominal pain. Pain scores fell by 20.8 ± 22.8, 29.4 ± 17.9, and 31.2 ± 21.9 in the placebo, active low-dose, and active high-dose groups, respectively (P value for placebo vs combined active doses = 0.0460).

CONCLUSION

NCFM alleviates moderate to severe abdominal pain, consistent with earlier observations of this strain mitigating visceral pain through increased analgesic receptor expression.

Factors affecting response to proton pump inhibitor therapy in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease: a multicenter prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, the first-line treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is not always effective. This study aimed to examine the effect of pretreatment patient characteristics on response to PPI therapy.

METHODS

Japanese outpatients with symptomatic GERD scheduled to receive endoscopy and PPI therapy were enrolled in this multicenter prospective observational study. The patients' characteristics, including GERD and dyspeptic symptoms, anxiety, depression, and quality of life, were assessed using questionnaires before and 2 and 4 weeks after the start of PPI therapy. Factors affecting therapeutic response were examined by simple and multiple regression analyses using three patient-reported outcome measures as objective variables.

RESULTS

Data from 182 patients were analyzed. In multiple regression analysis using the residual symptom rate as an objective variable, lower GERD symptom score (p < 0.05), absence of erosive esophagitis (p < 0.05), higher epigastric pain/burning symptom score (p < 0.05), and higher depression subscale score (p < 0.05) accompanied poorer therapeutic response. In analyses using the patient's impression of therapy, lower GERD symptom score (p < 0.05) and absence of erosive esophagitis (p < 0.05) accompanied poorer therapeutic response. In analyses using the relative GERD symptom intensity evaluated using a numeric rating scale, lower GERD symptom score (p < 0.05), higher epigastric pain/burning symptom score (p < 0.1), and lower body mass index (p < 0.05) accompanied poorer therapeutic response.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who complained of milder GERD symptoms before treatment were likely to have poorer response to PPI therapy. Association of absence of erosive esophagitis, severer epigastric pain/burning symptoms, lower body mass index, and severer depression with poorer therapeutic response was also suggested.

The Intestinal Gas Questionnaire: development of a new instrument for measuring gas-related symptoms and their impact on daily life

BACKGROUND

Although gas-related symptoms (GRS) are common and intrusive, there are no questionnaires to quantitate this problem. This study aimed to develop an instrument to rectify this gap in our knowledge.

METHODS

Concepts were initially identified from the literature and interviews with gastroenterologists. Exploratory one-to-one interviews and focus groups with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients (n = 28) and non-IBS subjects (n = 27) with GRS were conducted in UK, France, and Spain leading to a conceptual framework for the questionnaire. Last, iterative rounds of cognitive debriefing were performed with IBS (n = 16) and non-IBS subjects (n = 14).

KEY RESULTS

From the first three steps, nine GRS (bloating, distension, flatulence, odorous flatulence, difficult gas evacuation, stomach rumbling, belching, bad breath, and abdominal movement) were identified although abdominal movement was subsequently excluded. Twelve quality of life domains affected by these symptoms were identified as: Clothing, emotional, physical appearance, diet, daily living, work, social life, physical activity, relationships, sex life, sleep, and cognitive function. A 24-h recall for symptoms and a 7-day recall for impact assessment were supported by the qualitative findings. Cognitive debriefing confirmed the understanding of the instrument. Across the three languages, the instrument was conceptually and linguistically consistent.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The International Gas Questionnaire is a 2-part instrument, developed rigorously and simultaneously in three languages assessing seven symptoms (17 items) and their impact on 12 domains (26 items) in IBS and general population. It is now undergoing psychometric validation and should provide a unique tool for epidemiological surveys and clinical trials for developing new treatments for these symptoms.

Placebo effect in clinical trial design for irritable bowel syndrome

Ongoing efforts to improve clinical trial design in irritable bowel syndrome have been hindered by high placebo response rates and ineffective outcome measures. We assessed established strategies to minimize placebo effect as well as the various approaches to placebo effect which can affect trial design. These include genetic markers such as catechol-O-methyltransferase, opioidergic and dopaminergic neurobiologic theory, pre-cebo effect centered on expectancy theory, and side effect unblinding grounded on conditioning theory. We reviewed endpoints used in the study of IBS over the past decade including adequate relief and subjective global relief, emphasizing their weaknesses in fully evaluating the IBS condition, specifically their motility effects based on functional net value and relative benefit-harm based on dropouts due to adverse events. The focus of this review is to highlight ongoing efforts to improve clinical trial design which can lead to better outcomes in a real-world setting.

Technical report: an ePRO patient reported outcome program for the evaluation of patients with irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND

Patient reported outcome (PRO) is an important healthcare concept that describes patient's participation in their care by self-evaluation, usually in the form of questionnaires. This report describes an unique computerized technique, electronic PRO (ePRO), for following the progress of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

METHODS

Patients first completed a series of questionnaires, including questions about their illness history, symptom severity, and, in this application, psychological and relationship issues. The symptom severity and psychological questionnaires were then completed at intervals by the patients on their own computers. The ePRO was constructed to allow scores to be automatically summed and placed on a time-line graph for review at the time of the next office visit.

KEY RESULTS

Of the 32 patients who completed the initial set of questionnaires, 20 maintained participation in the program for a 6-month period. Of those 20 patients, median number of submissions was 7.0; median interval between questionnaire submissions was 3.0 weeks, whereas median interval between office visits was 5.9 weeks. On average, questionnaire completion took less than 5 min and was positively experienced by the patients.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The ePRO program proved to be technically feasible, clinically useful, and positively experienced by the patients. It provides a focus on a collaborative conversation between physician and patient. It has significant potential as a technique for evaluating outcome in response to various therapies.

Study design considerations for irritable bowel syndrome clinical trials

Clinical trials of therapies intended to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are prevalent. However, the ideal study design remains elusive since there is no obvious pathophysiological target and no universally accepted endpoint to assess symptom improvement in IBS. The purpose of this paper is to identify and discuss the most problematic issues in the design of clinical trials intended to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for IBS symptoms. Lack of standardized diagnostic criteria, symptom variability, heterogeneous subject characteristics, large placebo effects, lack of statistical power, inappropriate endpoint selection, and poorly selected study design are the most critical issues that may confound study outcomes in IBS clinical trials.

Long-term treatment with probiotics in primary care patients with irritable bowel syndrome--a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled trial

OBJECTIVE. Meta-analyses have indicated effect of probiotics on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, few long-term trials have been conducted and uncertainty remains as to effectiveness and long-term effect in a primary care setting. We aimed to investigate the effect of probiotics compared with placebo in the management of IBS in primary care during a 6-month treatment period and with a 6-month follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We randomized IBS patients fulfilling Rome III criteria to receive two capsules twice daily either containing placebo or a probiotic mixture of Lactobacillus paracasei ssp paracasei F19, Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium Bb12 in an amount of 1.3 × 10(10) CFU per capsule. Primary endpoint was proportion of responders defined as patients reporting adequate relief (AR) at least 50% of the time in the 6-month treatment period. Secondary outcomes were proportions of patients reporting AR at different time points, and change in gastrointestinal symptoms and health-related quality of life (HrQOL) from baseline to 6 and 12 months. RESULTS. A total of 131 patients were included in this study. The proportion of responders in the treatment period was 52% (35/67) in the probiotic group versus 41% (26/64) in the placebo group, p = 0.18. Overall we found no difference between the groups in change in gastrointestinal symptoms after treatment. Patients improved in HrQOL, but with no statistically significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSION. During a 6-month treatment period, we were not able to detect a positive effect of probiotic when compared with placebo.

FDA and EMA end points: which outcome end points should we use in clinical trials in patients with irritable bowel syndrome?

Trial design and endpoints for the evaluation of drug efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) underwent major changes over the last two decades. A systematic review in the early 1990s concluded that there were few well-designed and well-executed treatment trials in IBS. Over the next decade, the so-called binary endpoints were used in several clinical trials in IBS in the US, Europe and other parts of the world. In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a general guidance for the evaluation of symptom benefit in clinical trials based on patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures, which had a major impact on trial design in IBS. In May 2012, the FDA recommended to use as provisional endpoint the quantification of two major IBS aspects, abdominal pain and disordered defecation, to assess the efficacy of pharmacological treatments in IBS. In the present issue of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, the performance of the FDA Responder Endpoint for clinical trials in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation was evaluated using data from two large Phase III clinical trials of linaclotide. The FDA interim endpoints are clinically relevant as they are also able to capture the smallest patient-reported difference in the domain of Abdominal Pain intensity and Abnormal Defecation with good diagnostic accuracy. The FDA responder definition and the European Medicines Agency responder definitions generate similar response rates, while binary endpoints generate higher responder rates. The implications for optimalization and harmonisation are discussed.

Gastrointestinal well-being in subjects reporting mild gastrointestinal discomfort: characteristics and properties of a global assessment measure

There is a lack of recognised markers for measuring gastrointestinal (GI) well-being and digestive symptoms in the general population. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate construct validity of a global assessment tool of GI well-being. In this randomised double-blind study, 197 adult women consumed either a probiotic fermented milk or a control dairy product daily during 4 weeks. GI well-being was assessed weekly using a single question and subjects indicated whether their GI well-being remained the same, improved or worsened compared with the baseline period. Responders for GI well-being were subjects reporting improvement for at least 2 weeks of the 4 weeks of intervention. Frequency of individual digestive symptoms was assessed weekly. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured at baseline and at the end of the study. Subjects reporting improvement of their GI well-being had a significantly (P<0·05) lower frequency of combined digestive symptoms than individuals with no change, whereas subjects with worsened GI well-being had a significantly (P<0·05) higher digestive symptom frequency. Number of weeks with reported GI well-being improvement was significantly (P<0·05) correlated with the decrease in digestive symptoms (r 0·58) and the HRQoL digestive comfort dimension (r 0·47). When compared with non-responders, responders had significantly (P<0·0001) fewer average digestive symptoms and higher scores on digestive comfort of the HRQoL questionnaire. The data provide construct validity for a single-item questionnaire as a measure of GI well-being improvement. These data support the use of this questionnaire as an end point for nutritional intervention in the general population.

Treatment of fecal incontinence - review of observational studies (OS) and randomized controlled trials (RCT) related to injection of bulking agent into peri-anal tissue

PURPOSE: Novel treatments are needed to augment medical therapy for fecal incontinence. METHODS: Medline and Google search (fecal incontinence and injection treatment), English publications. RESULTS: Twenty-two observational studies and 4 randomized controlled trials were identified. OS mostly with limited sample sizes reported promising results. Repeated injection was necessary in some patients. Effect on anal sphincter pressures was highly variable. Significant improvements in the length of anal high-pressure zone, asymmetry index and maximum tolerable rectal volume were suggested. Four randomized controlled trials (n=176) revealed: 1. Short-term benefits from injection of Bioplastique under ultrasound guidance compared with digital guidance; 2. Silicone biomaterial (PTQ) provided some advantages and was safer than carbon-coated beads (Durasphere); 3. PTQ did not demonstrate clinical benefit compared to control injection of saline; 4. There was significant improvement at 6 weeks post injection, but no difference between Bulkamid and Permacol. A 2010 Cochrane review, however, noted that these data were inconclusive due to limited number and methodological weaknesses. CONCLUSION: Further studies are warranted to assess patient-centered outcomes (e.g. adequate relief) in addition to the attenuation of severity of incontinence symptoms in ambulatory patients. In nursing home residents, cost-effectiveness studies combining injection treatment and prompted voiding (to mitigate constraints of immobility and dementia) in preventing peri-anal skin complications deserves to be considered.

Linaclotide improves abdominal pain and bowel habits in a phase IIb study of patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Linaclotide, a minimally absorbed, 14-amino acid peptide agonist of guanylate cyclase-C, has shown benefit in a proof-of-concept study for the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation (IBS-C). We assessed the efficacy and safety of linaclotide at a daily dose range of 75-600 μg in IBS-C.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled study of 420 patients with IBS-C given oral linaclotide at doses of 75, 150, 300, or 600 μg or placebo once daily for 12 weeks. End points included change from baseline in daily bowel habits, daily abdominal symptoms, and weekly global assessments, in addition to responder criteria.

RESULTS

All doses of linaclotide significantly improved bowel habits, including frequency of spontaneous bowel movements and complete spontaneous bowel movements (primary end point), severity of straining, and stool consistency. Abdominal pain was significantly reduced from baseline, compared with placebo; mean changes in abdominal pain (assessed on a 5-point scale) from baseline were -0.71, -0.71, -0.90, and -0.86 for linaclotide doses of 75, 150, 300, and 600 μg, respectively, compared with -0.49 for placebo. Likewise, most doses of linaclotide significantly improved other abdominal symptoms, including discomfort and bloating, and global measures of IBS-C compared with placebo. Effects were observed within the first week and were sustained throughout 12 weeks of treatment. Except for diarrhea, the incidence of adverse events was similar between placebo and linaclotide groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Linaclotide, across a wide range of doses, significantly improved symptoms of IBS-C, including abdominal pain and bowel symptoms. Diarrhea was the only dose-dependent adverse event and was usually of mild or moderate severity.

Serum correlates of the placebo effect in irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND In diseases defined primarily by the subjective nature of patient self-report, placebo effects can overwhelm the capacity of randomized controlled trials to detect medication-placebo differences. Moreover, it is unclear whether such placebo effects represent genuine psychobiological phenomena or just shifts in selective attention. Knowledge of predictors of the placebo response could improve the design of clinical trials and the delivery of personalized medical care. METHODS In patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a subset of our previous study that were randomized to placebo treatment (sham acupuncture) or no-treatment group (waitlist), we tested an enriched panel of 10 serum biomarkers at the enrolment and the 3rd week of intervention, using a multiplex electrochemiluminescent immunoassay. KEY RESULTS More pronounced changes overtime in serum levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) have been found in patients who received placebo treatment compared with the waitlist group (P = 0.039). Moreover, serum levels of OPG at baseline were found to be higher (P = 0.0167) in patients who subsequently achieved adequate relief (AR) of their IBS symptoms, independently of their treatment group. Besides, serum levels of TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) at baseline were also higher (P = 0.0144) in patients who reported AR and in particular in those who received the placebo treatment. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES These two measurable biological parameters associated with placebo, namely serum OPG and TWEAK, provide a proof of principle for discovering putative molecular signatures of placebo response in IBS and perhaps in other illnesses with patient self-reported outcomes.

Editorial: is adequate relief fatally flawed or adequate as an end point in irritable bowel syndrome?

There is controversy on the validity of binary end points used in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) clinical trials. In a usual-care observational study, baseline severity influenced the response measured as satisfactory relief. This editorial reviews the observations from a non-pharmacological study to assess the effect of baseline severity on the performance of binary end points in large drug trials. The pivotal finding is that once the patients who reported adequate relief at baseline were excluded from the analysis, baseline severity no longer affected the proportion of patients reporting adequate relief of IBS with treatment. As large drug trials enriched the study cohorts for at least moderate severity after a no-treatment, run-in period, it seems likely that the precaution of excluding mild disease de facto resolved the hypothetical weakness of the adequate relief end point. Given the high responsiveness and longitudinal construct validity demonstrated with adequate relief end point, it should be accepted as a trial end point.