VSL#3 probiotic mixture - A review of its use in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases

Sources: Medical literature published in any language since 1980 on 'VSL#3', identified using MEDLINE and EMBASE, supplemented by AdisBase (a proprietary database of Adis International). Additional references were identified from the reference lists of published articles. Bibliographical information, including contributory unpublished data, was also requested from the company developing the drug. Search strategy: MEDLINE search terms were 'VSL#3' or 'VSL-3' or 'probiotics' and ('ulcerative colitis' or 'pouchitis'). EMBASE search terms were VSL3' or 'probiotics' and ('ulcerative colitis' or 'pouchitis'). AdisBase search terms were 'VSL#3' or 'VSL-3' or 'probiotics' and ('ulcerative colitis' or 'pouchitis'). Searches were last updated 3 July 2006. Selection: Studies in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease who received VSL#3. inclusion of studies was based mainly on the methods section of the trials and focused on patients with ulcerative colitis or pouchitis. When available, large, well controlled trials with appropriate statistical methodology were preferred. Relevant pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data are also included.