Nutritional Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Among Infants in the Philippines: Insights From Real-World Evidence

Abstract

Background: The objective of the study was to describe the clinical course of infants with pediatrician-diagnosed gastroesophageal regurgitation (GER), after changing to an infant anti-regurgitation formula. Methods: Information on frequency and volume of regurgitation, and disease progression were collected from mothers of 0- to 12-month-old Filipino infants with GER at baseline and 1 month after a pediatrician prescribed-formula containing carob bean gum, galacto-oligosaccharides and partially hydrolyzed whey protein for 14 days. Results: Eighty-nine infants aged ≤ 6 months and 40 aged 7 - 12 months old were enrolled. The most frequently reported amount of baseline regurgitation was half of the total feed (29 (33%) younger infants and 17 (43%) older infants). Baseline regurgitation frequency ranged from 1 - 3 times/day (45 (51%) and 21 (52%)) to 4 - 6 times/day (33 (37%) and 14 (35%)) and 7 - 9 times/day (11 (12%) and five (13%)). Regurgitation after 1-day consumption was resolved in 16 (18%) and 8 (20%) and in 57 (64%) and 31 (78%) younger and older infants at 14 days. Forty-one (32%) infants still had regurgitation episodes after a 14-day trial with decreased frequency and volume; three (7%) infants did not show any improvement, while one (1%) infant had increased amount of regurgitation. No medicine was given to study participants. Parent-reported sleep disturbance decreased in three (37%) younger infants and 25 (63%) older infants. Conclusion: Nutrition intervention has effectively improved symptom and quality of life among infants with GER within 14 days. Information on underlying conditions among those with unresolved symptoms are needed. Int J Clin Pediatr. 2019;8(1):1-7 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/ijcp338