Probiotics contain different types of micro-organisms
such as yeast (saccharomyces boulardii) and bacteria (such as
lactobacillus, bifidobacterium). Micro-organisms (flora) are naturally
found in the stomach/intestines/vagina. Some conditions (such as antibiotic
use, travel) can change the normal balance of bacteria/yeast. Probiotics
are used to improve digestion and restore normal flora.
Probiotics have been used to treat bowel problems (such
as diarrhea, irritable bowel), eczema, vaginal yeast infections, lactose
intolerance, and urinary tract infections.
Probiotics are available in foods (such as yogurt, milk,
juices, soy beverages) and as dietary supplements (capsules, tablets,
powders). Different products have different uses. Check the label for
information on uses for your particular product.
Some diet supplement products have been found to contain
possibly harmful impurities/additives. Check with your pharmacist for more
details regarding the particular brand you use.
The FDA has not reviewed this product for safety or
effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more
details.
Follow all directions on the product package. Refer to
the label directions for your specific product to see if the dose should be
swallowed whole, chewed, sprinkled onto food or mixed with liquid. If you
are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose
using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon
because you may not get the correct dose. If you have any questions, ask
your doctor or pharmacist.
Some probiotic products may contain live bacteria (such
as bifidobacteria). Antibiotics may prevent these products from working
well. Take any product containing live bacteria at least 2 to 3 hours
before or after taking antibiotics. Follow the directions for your specific
product.
If you are taking this product for diarrhea due to
antibiotics, do not use it if you have a high fever or for more than 2
days, unless directed by your doctor. You may have a serious problem that
requires medical treatment.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think
you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right
away.
An increase in stomach gas or bloating may occur. If
this effect lasts or gets worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- signs of infection (such as cough that doesn't go away, high
fever, chills)
A very serious allergic reaction to this product is
rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this product, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
If you have any of the following health problems,
consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this
product:
- diarrhea lasting more than 2 days (especially if you also
have a high fever)
- weakened immune system (such as due to chemotherapy, HIV
infection)
- recurring vaginal infections
- recurring urinary tract infections
Liquid products, foods, powders, or chewable tablets may
contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes,
phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to
limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist
about using this product safely.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this product should be used only when
clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some medications that may interact with certain
probiotics include:
- antibiotics
- antifungals (such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole,
griseofulvin, nystatin)
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Some brands may also contain other ingredients, such as
fiber or inulin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about
the ingredients in your brand.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Different types of probiotics may have different storage
needs. Some may require refrigeration while others should not be
refrigerated. Check the product package for instructions on how to store
your product. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist.
Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.