Risa-Bid

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

Risa-Bid has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective way to help treat diarrhea in children with rotavirus.

Risa-Bid has also been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective way (for children or adults) to prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics, travel, chemotherapy, or hospitalization. This medicine might also help treat 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.

Risa-Bid has been used to treat lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, or vaginal yeast infections caused by antibiotics. However, research shows 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 Risa-Bid is effective in treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved medicinal use of this product. This medicine should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Risa-Bid is often sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds lack regulated manufacturing standards, and some marketed supplements have been found to contain toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be bought from a trustworthy source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Risa-Bid may also be used for other purposes not listed 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 is trained in herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use Risa-Bid, 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.

Risa-Bid 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 increases the risk of an overdose.

Contact your doctor if the condition you are treating with Risa-Bid does not improve or if it worsens while using this product.

Store Risa-Bid 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 each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking.

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, Risa-Bid is thought to be likely safe when taken for a short period of time.

Common side effects of Risa-Bid 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 almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra Risa-Bid to make up for the missed dose.

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

Do not take Risa-Bid within 2 hours after taking any type of antibiotic medicine.

Do not take Risa-Bid 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 included in this product guide.