bifidobacterium and lactobacillus

Pronunciation: BIF eye doe bak TEER ee um and LAK toe ba SIL us

Brand: Controlled Delivery Probiotic, Florajen3, Nature's Bounty Probiotic, Phillips Colon Health, Primadophilus Bifidus, Probiotic Formula, Prodigen, Provella, Zelac

What is the most important information I should know about bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Do not use this product without medical advice. 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.

What is bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus is a medical food used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria" to maintain a healthy digestive tract (stomach and intestines). It may also help maintain healthy bacteria in the vagina.

Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus is used in people with irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, or an ileal pouch. Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus is also used in women to support vaginal health.

Not all uses for bifidobacterium and lactobacillus have been approved by the FDA. Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Before using bifidobacterium and lactobacillus, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use bifidobacterium and lactobacillus if you have certain medical conditions.

Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus is available in capsule, tablet, powder, and chewable tablet formulations. Do not use different formulations at the same time without medical advice.

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

  • milk allergy or lactose intolerance; or
  • if you are taking an antibiotic medication.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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

How should I take bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Check your product label to see whether you should take this product with or without food.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Mix the oral powder with a cold non-carbonated drink or soft food (applesauce, yogurt, ice cream) and eat this mixture right away. Do not save for later use.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using bifidobacterium and lactobacillus.

Store your medication as directed away from moisture, heat, and light. You may need to store the medicine in a refrigerator. Heat or humidity may affect the live bacteria in this product, making it less effective.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while taking bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Do not mix the oral powder with hot liquids or foods.

What are the possible side effects of bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

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

Common side effects may include:

  • stomach bloating or discomfort.

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.

What other drugs will affect bifidobacterium and lactobacillus?

Other drugs may affect bifidobacterium and lactobacillus, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.