Lactobacillus Acidophilus
About Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is an oral probiotic supplement used to support digestive health and restore the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. It is commonly taken to manage or prevent diarrhoea, including diarrhoea caused by antibiotics or travel. It also helps ease symptoms of gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
To get the most benefit, you should take Lactobacillus Acidophilus consistently every day at the same time. You can take this medicine with or without food, though taking it with meals may help reduce any initial mild stomach upset. Eating a fibre-rich diet and staying well-hydrated can further support your gut health while using this product.
While Lactobacillus Acidophilus is generally well-tolerated, some people may experience mild gas or bloating when first starting it. If you develop serious symptoms, such as a high fever, severe stomach pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking it and consult your doctor immediately.
Talk to your doctor before starting Lactobacillus Acidophilus if you have a weakened immune system, a damaged heart valve, or a central venous catheter. Do not take this if you have any of these conditions, as it can increase the risk of serious blood infections.
Avoid taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus at the exact same time as antibiotics, as these medications can kill the beneficial bacteria in the supplement and make it less effective. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or elderly, talk to your doctor before using this product to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.
Uses of Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Medicinal Benefits
Lactobacillus Acidophilus helps restore the natural balance of your digestive system, improving digestive comfort and supporting healthy bowel function. With regular use, it helps relieve bloating, reduces loose stools, and promotes a healthier digestive process.
- Relieves Bloating and Gas: By supporting normal digestion, this medicine helps reduce persistent bloating and excess gas, allowing you to enjoy meals more comfortably.
- Supports Healthy Bowel Movements: This medicine helps firm up loose stools and reduce the frequency of sudden bowel movements, promoting more regular and comfortable digestion.
- Improves Overall Digestive Comfort: By restoring digestive balance, this medicine helps you feel lighter, less sluggish after meals, and more comfortable throughout the day.
Directions for Use
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus can be taken with or without food as advised by your doctor.
- Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication to ensure safety.
- Swallow Lactobacillus Acidophilus as a whole with a glass of water.
- Do not chew, crush, or break it.
Storage
Side Effects of Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Common Side Effects (Usually mild):
- Mild gas
- Bloating
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects (Consult a doctor right away):
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing)
- High fever or chills
- Severe, persistent stomach pain or vomiting
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Always check the expiration date on the package before taking, as expired products may contain dead bacteria and will not be effective.
- Check the product label to see if it contains dairy, soy, or gluten if you have known allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.
- If your diarrhoea lasts for more than two days, is accompanied by a high fever, or if you notice blood in your stool, stop taking the supplement and see a doctor immediately.
- Avoid taking this product within 2 hours of taking any suggested antibiotic or antifungal medication.
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics: May kill the live bacteria in Lactobacillus Acidophilus, making the probiotic much less effective.
- Antifungals: Some oral antifungal medications may reduce the effectiveness of certain probiotic strains.
- Immunosuppressants: Medications that weaken the immune system can increase the risk of bacterial infection from probiotic supplements.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid taking alcohol while using Lactobacillus Acidophilus since it may worsen the disease condition and side effects.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorLactobacillus Acidophilus is likely safe to be used during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor before taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorLactobacillus Acidophilus is possibly safe when advised by your doctor during breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor before taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
safe if suggestedLactobacillus Acidophilus does not interfere with your driving ability.
Liver
consult your doctorLet your doctor know if you have any history of liver diseases before taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
Kidney
consult your doctorLet your doctor know if you have any history of kidney diseases before taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
Children
consult your doctorLactobacillus Acidophilus is recommended for children only if the doctor has advised it.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, bananas, and oats to help feed and nourish the beneficial bacteria in Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you are taking this medicine to help manage diarrhoea.
- Limit foods high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats, as these can promote the growth of harmful bacteria in your gut and counteract the benefits of your probiotic.
- Avoid consuming extremely hot foods or beverages immediately after taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus, as high heat can destroy the live bacteria.
Special Advise
If your diarrhoea persists for more than two weeks, please contact a doctor.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Diarrhoea: It is a condition in which bowel movements are too frequent, leading to loose and watery stools. Acute diarrhoea is a common problem that generally lasts for one to two days, whereas chronic diarrhoea lasts for four weeks. Diarrhoea can be due to various reasons, including infection, antibiotics, a disease (inflammatory bowel disease), and other medicines.
FAQs
Lactobacillus Acidophilus belongs to the class of 'probiotics', primarily used to treat diarrhoea. Lactobacillus Acidophilus also effectively treats irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease (inflammatory bowel disease), and bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus contains Lactobacillus acidophilus. It is a live bacteria, or probiotic that restores good bacteria and reduces stomach upset and diarrhoea.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus should be used with proper caution and doctor consultation if you have any liver or kidney disease, ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the colon), short bowel syndrome (lack of functional small intestine), heart problems (damaged heart valves), and weakened immune system (HIV/AIDS).
Do not stop using Lactobacillus Acidophilus even if you feel better until the doctor's advised course is finished. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured.
It is not recommended to use various forms of Lactobacillus at a time. This may lead to an increased risk of overdose. You are advised only to use the doctor-recommended formulation in its righteous dosage.
If you are taking antibiotics, do not take Lactobacillus Acidophilus at the same time. Take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after your antibiotic dose to reduce the chance of the antibiotic killing the beneficial bacteria. Follow your doctor's advice regarding the timing and duration of treatment.
It depends on the specific brand and formulation. Some require refrigeration to keep the live bacteria active, while others are stable at room temperature. Always check the storage instructions on your product's packaging or talk to your pharmacist.
Yes, Lactobacillus Acidophilus is typically taken daily to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. However, the length of time you should use it depends on your specific health needs. Talk to your doctor to determine how long you should take this supplement.
Most people tolerate Lactobacillus Acidophilus very well, but some may experience mild gas or bloating during the first few days of use. These symptoms usually go away as your body adjusts. If you experience severe side effects, talk to your doctor.
Some probiotic products may contain trace amounts of dairy or lactose from the manufacturing process. If you have a severe lactose allergy or intolerance, check the product label carefully or talk to your pharmacist before taking it.
Probiotics are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement during this time.
While rare, severe stomach pain is not a normal side effect. You should stop taking the supplement immediately and talk to your doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
