ABSTRACT
Constipation is a common problem in elderly subjects. Probiotics have been suggested to improve intestinal motility and to reduce fecal enzyme activity. In this study, the effect of lactobacillus acidophilus tablets on elderly subjects was compared with placebo. Elderly subjects [n = 48] with chief complaint of constipation were enrolled in a randomly double-blind study. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: control group, receiving placebo every 8 hours for one month, and study group, receiving lactobacillus acidophilus tablet every 8 hours for one month. Subjects with lactose intolerance and other pathologic conditions were omitted. At the end of 4 weeks, all subjects were questioned on the relief of constipation and other symptoms. Response to treatment and complications were compared between the two groups. In subjects receiving lactobacillus acidophilus, 50%[13 subjects] responded well and had relief of constipation, 23.1%[6 subjects] showed relative response and 26.9%[7 subjects] did not respond. In subjects receiving placebo, 40% [6 subjects] had relief of constipation, 13.3% [2 subjects] responded relatively well and in 46.7% [7 subjects] no response was seen [p=0.388]. New signs were observed in 5 subjects [19.2%] receiving lactobacillus acidophilus and 1 subject [6.7%] receiving placebo. After 4 weeks, 2 subjects [7.7%] receiving lactobacillus acidophilus and 1 subject [6.7%] receiving placebo re-experienced constipation. Some relief of constipation could be observed with lactobacillus acidophilus tablets, but there was no significant difference between the two groups