A systematic review including 20 studies with a total of 394 subjects was abstracted in DARE. Eleven trials (203 participants) were combined in the meta-analysis of weight difference and 20 trials were included in the adverse events analysis. Meta-analysis of 11 trials indicates that there is no statistically-significant difference in patients receiving guar gum compared with those receiving placebo (WMD -0.04 kg, 95% CI: -2.2 to +2.1).
The adverse events (reported in 17 of 20 trials) most frequently reported were gastrointestinal complaints (flatulence, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps). Eleven patients dropped out owing to adverse events.