Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of bacteria that naturally occurs in the body, mainly in the intestines and vagina. It is used as a probiotic, which means it is considered "friendly bacteria."

Lactobacillus acidophilus has been used in alternative medicine and is likely effective in helping treat diarrhea in children with rotavirus.

Lactobacillus acidophilus may also be possibly effective in preventing diarrhea caused by antibiotics, travel, chemotherapy, or hospitalization in both children and adults. It is also possibly effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial vaginal infections, colic in babies, lung infections in children, skin problems in children allergic to milk, and other conditions.

Lactobacillus acidophilus has been used to help treat lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, too much bacteria in the intestines, or vaginal yeast infections caused by antibiotics. However, studies have shown that lactobacillus acidophilus may not work for these conditions.

Other uses that have not been proven with 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 lactobacillus acidophilus is effective in treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved this product for medicinal use. Lactobacillus acidophilus should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is commonly sold as an herbal supplement. There are no strict manufacturing standards for many herbal products, and some supplements that are sold have been found to 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.

Lactobacillus acidophilus may also be used for other purposes that are not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You may also want to talk to a practitioner who is trained in herbal or health supplements.

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

Lactobacillus acidophilus comes in capsules and tablets, or as a vaginal suppository. Powder or liquid forms may also be available. Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also have lactobacillus acidophilus.

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 types together raises the risk of an overdose.

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

Store lactobacillus acidophilus in a sealed container as directed 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 have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, lactobacillus acidophilus is thought to be likely safe when taken for a short period of time.

Common side effects of lactobacillus acidophilus may include:

• bloating; or
• gas.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to 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 lactobacillus acidophilus to compensate for the missed dose.

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

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

Do not take lactobacillus acidophilus 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 mentioned in this product guide.