A recent article published in the Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines presented general recommendations developed by an Asian expert panel of pediatricians, pediatric gastroenterologists and a pediatric infectious disease specialist, on the use of probiotics as adjunct treatment in diarrhea, and the use of Bacillus clausii (O/C, SIN, N/R, T) in acute diarrhea, chronic diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) – to be used as reference in the management of pediatric diarrhea to improve patient outcomes. These recommendations consolidate the current evidence on the efficacy of probiotics in reducing the duration and severity of acute diarrhea in children, and the efficacy and safety of B. clausii (O/C, SIN, N/R, T) in reducing the duration and frequency of acute diarrhea.

According to the consensus, Bacillus clausii was recommended as an adjunct treatment with oral rehydration solution for acute viral diarrhea. This specie may also be considered in the prevention of AAD; Clostridium difficile-induced diarrhea; and as an adjunct treatment of Helicobacter pylori. However, there is insufficient evidence for recommendations in other conditions. 

In addition, it was stated that similar recommendations currently apply to most Asia-Pacific countries. Validation with local randomized-controlled trials is warranted. 

Source: Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines. 2020; 6: 21. doi: 10.1186/s40794-020-00120-4