Flora-Q

Flora-Q is a type of bacteria that naturally exists in the body, mainly in the intestines and vagina. This medicine is used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria."

Flora-Q has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective aid for treating diarrhea in children with rotavirus.

Flora-Q has also been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid (for children or adults) in preventing diarrhea caused by antibiotics, travel, chemotherapy, or hospitalization. This medicine might also be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial vaginal infections, colic in babies, lung infections in children, skin problems in children who are allergic to milk, and other conditions.

Flora-Q has also been used to treat lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines, or vaginal yeast infections caused by antibiotics. However, research has shown that this medicine may not work for these conditions.

Other uses that have not been proven by research include treating indigestion, urinary tract infections, intestinal problems in premature babies, high cholesterol, lyme disease, cold sores, acne, cancer, the common cold, and other conditions.

It is not clear if Flora-Q is effective for treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved this product for medicinal use. This medicine should not replace any medications prescribed by your doctor.

Flora-Q is often sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal products do not have regulated manufacturing standards, and some supplements that are sold may be contaminated with harmful metals or other drugs. It is important to buy herbal/health supplements from a trusted source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Flora-Q may also be used for other purposes not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You may also want to consult a practitioner who specializes in herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use Flora-Q, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Flora-Q comes in capsule and tablet forms, or as a vaginal suppository. Powder or liquid forms may also be available. Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also contain this medicine.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before swallowing.

Do not use different forms of lactobacillus acidophilus at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together can increase the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Flora-Q does not improve, or if it worsens while using this product.

Store Flora-Q in a sealed container as instructed on the product label, away from moisture, heat, and light.

Follow all directions on the product label and package.

Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• short bowel syndrome; or
• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, Flora-Q is believed to be likely safe when taken for a short time.

Common side effects of Flora-Q may include:

• bloating; or
• gas.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra Flora-Q to compensate for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Do not take Flora-Q within 2 hours after taking any type of antibiotic medicine.

Do not take Flora-Q without talking to your doctor if you are using any medications that can weaken your immune system, such as:

• medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection; or
• steroid medicine (prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and others).

This list is not complete. Other medications may interact with lactobacillus acidophilus, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.