Study to Determine the Effectiveness of the Probiotic E. Coli Strain M17 in Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Clinical Trial

Official title: A Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of the Tolerance and Efficacy of the Probiotic E. Coli Strain M17 on Symptoms and Quality of Life in Individuals With Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The purpose of this study is to determine the tolerance and efficacy of the probiotic E. Coli Strain M17 on symptoms and Quality of Life in Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Clinical Trial Description

IBS is characterized by abdominal discomfort and altered bowel function, without identifiable structural or biochemical abnormalities. Current management approaches are not satisfactory for many individuals, who continue to have intermittent constipation or diarrhea, associated with abdominal discomfort.

Probiotics, or "friendly bacteria", is the name given to a new category of products that show promise for managing the symptoms of IBS. In the intestine they are believed to compete with other bacteria, to product substances that interfere with other bacteria, and to improve the function of the mucous lining and immune function of the gastrointestinal tract. A common source of probiotics is in cultured dairy products,m such as yogurt or cheese. E. coli Strain M17 is not regulated vy the Food and Drug Administration. It is considered to be a health food supplement.

E. coli strain M17 was identified in Russia more than 70 years ago. It became widely used in countries of the former Soviet Union for a variety of gastrointestinal problems, including IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease), and diarrhea, including infants and children. It continues to be produced and marketed under government control in the Russian Federation. E. coli strain M17 was brought to Israel in the early 1990's by two Russian scientists. It was developed for human use and animal feed and approved for use by the Israeli health authorities. A special liquid formulation was developed and sold as a nutritional supplement in pharmacies in Israel until 2002 when the product was acquired by a U.S. company, the BioBalance Corporation, for the purpose of introducing it outside Israel as a medical food and nutritional supplement in the U.S. and other countries.

The purpose of this research study is to compare the tolerability and effectiveness of E. coli strain M17 to placebo in the treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Caregiver, Investigator), Primary Purpose: Treatment

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Syndrome

• NCT number: NCT00194922
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Weill Medical College of Cornell University
• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 2
• Start date: August 2004
• Completion date: November 2006