Comparison Between Therapeutic Efficacy of Zinc Only and Zinc-Probiotics in Children with Acute Gastroenteritis

Abstract

Objective: To compare the efficacy of zinc supplements alone and in combination with
probiotics for the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children less than 5 years of age
presenting to pediatrics OPD and Emergency Department of Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi.
Methodology: This comparative interventional study was conducted at the Pediatrics ward at
Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi from Jul 2021 to Jan 2022. Hundred patients from Peads
Emergency Department fulfilling the inclusion criteria, were selected by non-probability
purposive sampling technique. Subjects were divided into two groups on the basis of treatment
they are taking. Patients taking zinc sulfate with ORS placed in Group A while patient taking
probiotics (bacillus clausii 2B) along with ORS and zinc sulfate were placed in Group B.
Assessment was done by checking stool frequency and grading of stools by using WHO criteria.
Chi-square test was used to compare efficacy [grading of stool] among both the group. P< 0.05
was taken as significance.
Results: Mean age (months, years) in the study was 1.04+0.85 with majority female patients
61 (61.0%) and compared to male patients 39 (39.0%). Frequency and percentage of 4-7 no. of
stools among both the groups 23 (46.0%) and 10 (20.0%) respectively.
Conclusion: The study concluded that Zinc with probiotic was more efficacious than zinc alone
in treating acute diarrhea.
Key words: Supplements, Gastroenteritis, Zinc