The effects of oral nutritional supplements in patients with maintenance dialysis therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Background/objectiveThis systematic review aims to determine the potential effects of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in patients receiving maintenance dialysis therapy (MDT).MethodsElectronic databases were searched without language limits through to July 2018. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that involved comparisons of ONS versus placebo or routine care are included in this meta-analysis. RevMan 5.3 statistical software was used for meta-analysis.Results15 articles with 589 subjects were included in our study. There are insufficient comparable data of randomized trials to allow meta-analysis of mortality. Albumin levels may be improved by the macronutrient blends or protein/amino acid supplements in MDT patients. Compared with the control group, serum albumin levels and BMI in the ONS group were increased by 1.58 g/L (95% CI, 0.52–2.63, P = 0.003; I2 = 85%) and 0.40 kg/m2 (95% CI, 0.10–0.71, P = 0.01; I2 = 49%), respectively. In the subgroup analysis of patients receiving hemodialysis, albumin levels in ONS group were increased by 2.17 g/L (95% CI, 0.89–3.45, P2 = 90%). ONS may not influence serum phosphorus and potassium levels.ConclusionsVery low-quality evidence suggests that Short-term oral energy or protein/amino acid supplements may improve nutritional status by increasing serum albumin levels and BMI in MDT patients, without influence on serum potassium levels. High-quality and large RCTs, particularly regarding the effects of ONS on mortality and quality of life, are needed to further validate our findings.