Clinical Report: Efficacy of Zinc-L-Carnosine in Treating Infant Regurgitation
Overview
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Zinc-L-carnosine (Polaprezinc) in treating persistent regurgitation in infants. Results indicate significant symptom improvement and lower treatment costs compared to thickened formula.
Background
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in infants and often leads to parental concern despite being typically self-limited. Current management strategies include thickened formulas, but there is a need for safer alternatives. Zinc-L-carnosine has shown promise in adult gastrointestinal disorders, warranting investigation in pediatric populations.
Data Highlights
Group
I-GERQ-R Score Improvement
Regurgitation Frequency Reduction
Treatment Cost
Hepilor liquido®
Significant
Greater reduction
Lower
Thickened formula
Significant
Less reduction
Higher
Key Findings
Both treatment groups showed significant improvement in I-GERQ-R scores after 8 weeks.
The Hepilor liquido® group had a greater reduction in regurgitation frequency compared to the thickened formula group.
The average treatment cost was significantly lower for Hepilor liquido®.
No severe adverse events were reported in either treatment group.
Zinc-L-carnosine is a safe alternative for managing persistent infant regurgitation.
Clinical Implications
Zinc-L-carnosine presents a viable treatment option for infants with persistent regurgitation, especially when non-pharmacological measures fail. Its lower cost and effectiveness may enhance treatment accessibility for families.
Conclusion
Zinc-L-carnosine is an effective and cost-efficient alternative to thickened formulas for treating infant regurgitation, supporting further research in larger cohorts.
by Marisa Piccirillo, Maurizio Mennini, Enrico Felici, Angela Mauro, Luca Bernardo, Maria Elisabetta Baldassarre, Erika Renzi, Corrado De Vito, Silvia Furio, Marco Graziani, Giovanna Quatrale, Alessandro Ferretti, Giovanni Di Nardo