Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and quality of life associated with functional constipation

Background: Functional constipation (FC) defines the form of constipation without an organic aetiology and influences the quality of life of the child in many aspects. In the present study, we aimed to compare the effects of Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) DSM 17938 and lactulose treatments on the health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) of constipated children and their families. Methods: Children with FC were divided into two groups to receive either L. Reuteri DSM 17938 (n = 25) or lactulose (n = 24), for four weeks. All patients and their parents completed the KINDL® HR-QoL questionnaire before and at the end of the treatment period. Results: The final total and disease perception scores and the subscale analyses of the probiotic and lactulose groups were comparable. The final mean total scores of parent questionnaires increased in both groups (68% to 71.3% in the probiotic group, 66.1% to 70.9% in the lactulose group), and the increase in the lactulose group was found statistically significant. Conclusion: In our study, L. reuteri DSM 17938 has showed to have comparable effects on the HR-QoL in children with FC, when compared to lactulose. Lactulose was more efficient regarding satisfaction of families and the family perception of HR-QoL.