Does Bismuth Subgallate Affect Smell and Stool Character? A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial of Bismuth Subgallate on Loop Duodenal Switch Patients with Complaints of Smelly Stools and Diarrhea.

BACKGROUND: Loop duodenal switch (LDS) can result in fat and starch malabsorption. In a small percentage of patients, a relevant qualitative and quantitative change in stools happens usually characterized by steatorrhea-like diarrhea. Bismuth subgallate (BS) has been marketed as a way to eliminate the odor associated with flatulence and bowel movements. The objective of this study is to see the efficacy and effect of BS on the quality of life (QOL) in patients undergoing LDS.

METHODS: A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study was designed. Thirty-six patients who reported flatus and/or stool odor changes and have completed at least 6 months post-LDS were included. Patients participated in two treatment periods, each lasting for 1 week, separated by 1-week washout. Patients received 200 mg BS, 2 capsules per meal, or placebo for 1 week each. The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) questionnaire was used to compare the QOL before the initiation of the therapy and after each treatment completion.

RESULTS: Of 36 patients, 5 patients were lost to follow-up and 2 were withdrawn from the study. And 29 patients were included for final analysis. GIQLI scores obtained with BS treatment completion were significantly higher both overall (P = 0.007) and in the digestive domain (P < 0.001) than those obtained before the treatment. GIQLI scores obtained from the other domains were also higher compared to the pre-treatment as well as placebo treatment but not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION: In our double-blinded trial, treatment with BS after LDS statistically improves GIQLI score and steatorrhea-like symptoms.