Uses

Probiotic bacteria supplements are used to restore and maintain a healthy intestinal microbiota. They are commonly used for prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and general gastrointestinal health support.

Do not use if

Use with caution or avoid in severely immunocompromised patients (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients) due to risk of opportunistic infection.

Side effects

Generally well tolerated. Mild bloating and flatulence may occur initially. In immunocompromised patients, rare cases of systemic infection (fungemia or bacteremia) have been reported.

Warnings

Store refrigerated as directed to maintain viability. The clinical benefit is strain- and dose-dependent; not all probiotic products are equivalent. Consult a physician before use in critically ill or immunocompromised patients.

How it works

Probiotic bacteria (typically Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species) colonize the gastrointestinal tract and exert beneficial effects by competing with pathogenic organisms, producing antimicrobial substances, reinforcing the intestinal mucosal barrier, and modulating local immune responses.

Storage

Typically store refrigerated at 2°C–8°C. Keep away from heat and moisture. Follow product-specific storage instructions.