The effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri on serum bilirubin levels in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia with phototherapy

Background Hyperbilirubinemia occurs in 60% of full term and 80% premature infants. Phototherapy is the main treatment, but it has side effects, sometimes requires hospitalization, causes baby to be separated from mother. Underdeveloped gut microflora increased enterohepatic circulation newborns contribute serum bilirubin levels early life.
 Objective To assess efficacy adding probiotic L. reuteri on phototherapy full-term neonates with hyperbilirubinemia.
 Methods In this double-blind, randomized clinical trial, infants hyperbilirubinemia at Dr. Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia, were randomly assigned either an intervention or control group. All subjects received phototherapy. The group was also given five drops once a day orally before started, while placebo. Bilirubin after 24-hour evaluated both groups.
 Results A total 42 met inclusion criteria. had significantly greater decrease (TSB) level (6,517 mg/dL) than did (4,434 (P<0.001), as well indirect 6.40 mg/dL 4.43 24 hours (P<0.001).
 Conclusion who underwent phototherapy, leads reduction compared