Lactobacillus acidophilus is an acid producing bacteria that is available in dietary supplements to restore the normal intestinal flora.

• Bacid,
• Culturelle,
• Dofus,
• Flora-Q,
• Floranex,
• Kala,
• Lactinex,
• Lacto-Bifidus,
• Lacto-Key,
• Lacto-Pectin,
• Lacto-TriBlend,
• Lactobacillus acidophilys and Bulgaricus,
• Megaophilus,
• MoreDophilus,
• Probiotica,
• RisaQuad,
• Superdophilus

No

Yes

Lactobacillus acidophilus is used to help re-establish the normal gut or intestinal flora. It is used to restore intestinal flora, the loss of which may be caused by antibiotic treatment and is associated with diarrhea.

Common side effects include:

• bloating and
• flatulence (gas).

Other side effects include:

• constipation,
• hiccups,
• nausea,
• rash, and
• infection.

Adults: Dosing varies by manufacturer. Some dosing examples include 1 to 2 capsules daily; 8 oz of yogurt twice daily; or 1 to 10 billion colony forming units (CFU) daily divided in 3 to 4 doses.

Take at least 2 hours after receiving an antibiotic and continue for several days after stopping antibiotic treatment.

No significant drug interactions reported.

Lactobacillus acidophilus has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women.

It is not known whether Lactobacillus acidophilus is secreted into breast milk.

What preparations of Lactobacillus acidophilus are available?

The bacteria are available in many different preparations - Oral: capsules, caplets, chewable tablets, tablets, granules, powder. It is also in dietary supplements and fermented foods such as yogurt.

How should I keep Lactobacillus acidophilus stored?

Lactobacillus preparationsshould be stored at 15-30°C.

How does Lactobacillus acidophilus work?

Lactobacillus acidophilus bacterial strains are normal colonizers of the bowel and work by inhibiting or decreasing the growth of harmful microorganisms in the gut by producing lactic acid. Preparations that contain these bacteria are considered to be probiotics, dietary supplements that contain live bacteria that when taken orally, restore beneficial bacteria to the body (GI tract) and promote good health.