Probiotics in Elderly Patients With Medical Conditions

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Probiotics in Treating Constipation in Elderly Patients With Multiple Chronic Co-morbidities: a Randomized Control Trial

Study of efficacy of probiotic in older patients with multiple co-morbidites and constipation

Background and aims:

Probiotics are known to have a beneficial effect on the management of constipation. Thus, the current study objective was to evaluate the impact of a microbial cell preparation (MCP) (Hexbio®; comprising Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains) on stool frequency, consistency, and constipation-related symptoms in elderly patients with multiple chronic medical conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

-clinical diagnosis of constipation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Parkinson's disease,
• spinal cord lesions
• post radiation strictures
• on calcium supplements of greater than 1,500 mg per day
• immune-deficiency
• critical illness