High-fibre diet and Lactobacillus paracasei B21060 in symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease.

Aim: To investigate in symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease the efficacy of symbiotics associated with a high-fibre diet on abdominal symptoms.

Methods: This study was a multicentre, 6-mo randomized, controlled, parallel-group intervention with a preceding 4-wk washout period. Consecutive outpatients with symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease, aged 40-80 years, evaluated in 4 Gastroenterology Units, were enrolled.

Treatment of periocular wrinkles with topical nifedipine.

The appearance of facial expression wrinkles is the result of chronic contraction of mimic muscles. Nifedipine is a dihydropyridinic calcium antagonist which blocks muscular cells' calcium channels, therefore inhibiting their contraction. We assumed that topical nifedipine was able to relax mimic muscular fibres in the same way, thus reducing the depth of wrinkles.

Clinical trial on the efficacy of a new symbiotic formulation, Flortec, in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a multicenter, randomized study.

Objectives: Efficacy of symbiotics in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) remains unknown.

Methods: Patients were randomized to a prebiotic (n=135), or a symbiotic formulation containing Lactobacillus paracasei B21060 (Flortec, n=132). Primary efficacy was the responder rate for pain and global relief of symptoms in the overall population and in patients with predominant diarrhea (n=47).