Acidophilus Products
FLORAjen®, Bacid®, Kala®, Lactinex®, Superdophilus®, Moredophilus®,
Pro-Bionate®
Acidophilus is used to treat or prevent vaginal yeast infections, yeast infections of the mouth, diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics, and urinary tract infections. While taking antibiotics, many doctors and pharmacists suggest taking yogurt or Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements. Antibiotics help destroy harmful bacteria in your body, but can also decrease the number of good and helpful bacteria in the intestinal tract and vagina. Acidophilus aids in maintaining an acidic environment in the body which can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
About Acidophilus Products
These products use the same strain of L. acidophilus used by most of the yogurt companies in the United States since 1975. They have NOT been approved for the treatment of any disease. They should not be substituted for prescription medicines.
Acidophilus has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of acidophilus may not be fully understood.
Acidophilus is sold in capsule, tablet, powder, or liquid forms. Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also contain lactobacillus acidophilus.
Do not use many different forms (such as tablets, topical formulations, and others) of acidophilus at the same time, unless instructed to do so by your healthcare team.
Before Using This Medicine
Tell your doctor, nurse, and pharmacist if you:
▪ are allergic to any medicines, foods, or other substances;
▪ are pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking this medicine;
▪ are breast-feeding;
▪ are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (OTC) medicines, dietary supplements, or herbal products;
▪ have any other medical problems.
Some products should not be used by people with allergies to milk or lactose.
Usage
Most products suggest taking capsules with liquids on an empty stomach once a day or more. The dose taken depends on which product is used and may have dosing suggestions listed on the product. Follow the directions on the product label or ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. If you are taking antibiotics, take the product one to two hours after you take the antibiotic. Do not take it at the same time as the antibiotic. Many people improve within 2-4 days, others may take 2-4 weeks, and a few see no improvement.
Storage
Some of these products should be refrigerated.
These products are available over-the-counter at your local drug store where they may be stored in a cooler. Never use the product if the safety seal is broken.
Possible Side Effects of This Medicine
CALL YOUR DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY IF YOU NOTICE ANY OF THESE SIDE EFFECTS.
• Hives
• Problems breathing
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
SIDE EFFECTS THAT MOST OFTEN DO NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION
These possible side effects may go away during treatment; however, if they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
• Gas/burping
• Diarrhea
• Hiccups
• Vomiting
• Constipation
References
http://www.drugs.com/mtm/acidophilus.html
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 11/06/2012
Copyright © 11/06/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5363
Print Health Fact For You