Comparison of Reduction in Stool Frequency As Effect of Probiotics (Bacillus clausii) And Antisecretory (Racecadotril) in Acute Watery Diarrhea With Some / Mild Dehydration
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Abstract
Background: Acute watery diarrhea remains a common cause of morbidity among young children, and adjunctive therapies that reduce stool frequency may improve clinical recovery when used with oral rehydration therapy. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of Bacillus clausii probiotic therapy and racecadotril in reducing stool frequency among children with acute watery diarrhea and mild dehydration. Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Chaudhary Muhammad Akram Teaching and Research Hospital, Lahore, from July 30, 2023, to January 29, 2024. Ninety children aged 1–5 years with acute watery diarrhea, at least ten loose stools per day, and mild dehydration were enrolled and allocated into two equal groups. Group A received Bacillus clausii plus oral hypo-osmolar rehydration solution, while Group B received racecadotril plus oral hypo-osmolar rehydration solution. Stool frequency was recorded during follow-up, and treatment response was defined as more than 50% reduction in loose stool frequency. Results: The mean age was 3.32 ± 1.48 years. Reduction in stool frequency was achieved in 43 children (95.6%) in Group A compared with 31 children (68.9%) in Group B (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12–1.73; p=0.001). Mean loose stool frequency was also lower in Group A at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Conclusion: Bacillus clausii plus oral rehydration solution was associated with greater reduction in stool frequency than racecadotril plus oral rehydration solution in children with acute watery diarrhea and mild dehydration.
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