Lactinex

Lactinex is a type of bacteria that naturally occurs in the body, mainly in the intestines and the vagina. This medicine is known as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria."

Lactinex has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective treatment for diarrhea in children with rotavirus.

Lactinex has also been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective treatment (for children or adults) to prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics, travel, chemotherapy, or hospitalization. This medicine may also be possibly effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial vaginal infections, colic in babies, lung infections in children, skin issues in children allergic to milk, and various other conditions.

Lactinex has also been used to address lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, or vaginal yeast infections caused by antibiotics. However, studies have shown that this medicine may not be effective for these conditions.

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

It is unclear if Lactinex is effective for treating any medical condition. The medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Lactinex is often sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal products do not have regulated manufacturing standards, and some supplements have been found to contain harmful metals or other drugs. To reduce the risk of contamination, herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a trustworthy source.

Lactinex may also be used for other purposes not mentioned in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You might also want to talk to a practitioner who knows about herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use Lactinex, 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.

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

The chewable tablet needs to be chewed before swallowing.

Do not use different forms of lactobacillus acidophilus at the same time without talking to your doctor. Using different formulations together raises the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Lactinex does not get better, or if it worsens while using this product.

Store Lactinex in a sealed container as directed on the product label, away from moisture, heat, and light.

Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform all your healthcare providers about your medical conditions, allergies, and all the medicines you are using.

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 any signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

While not all side effects are known, Lactinex is considered likely safe when used for a short time.

Common side effects of Lactinex may include:

• bloating; or
• gas.

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

Skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra Lactinex to compensate for the missed dose.

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

Avoid taking Lactinex within 2 hours after you take any type of antibiotic medicine.

Do not take Lactinex 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 drugs 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.