Effectiveness of GASTROFIX on Duration of Diarrhea and Length of Hospitalization in Children with Acute Gastroenteritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: According to evidence, the main treatment plans for children with gastroenteritis include the use of an oral solution or intravenous infusion for hydration, continued nutrition; zinc supplementation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Gastro-Fix (registered nutritional supplement) versus placebo on length of hospitalization and duration of diarrhea in children with acute gastroenteritis. Materials and Methods: We conducted a double blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in children with acute gastroenteritis (age between 6 and 120 months). Three hundred eligible patients randomly allocated to one of two parallel groups, Intervention received Gastro-Fix, whereas the placebo group received baby food (cereal based on skimmed milk and wheat without mineral) for a total of 6 days. Gastro-Fix and baby food was administered as a same sachet that could be opened and mixed in water. The primary outcome was length of hospitalization and duration of diarrhea. Results: The Mean length of hospitalization in Gastro-Fix and placebo was 3.43+ 0.57 and 4.70+0.59 day respectively (