lactobacillus acidophilus

Medically Reviewed on 3/7/2023

Generic Name: lactobacillus acidophilus

Brand Names: 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

What is Lactobacillus acidophilus, and what is it used for?

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

What are the side effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus?

Common side effects include:

Other side effects include:

What is the dosage for Lactobacillus acidophilus?

  • 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.

Which drugs interact with Lactobacillus acidophilus?

No significant drug interactions have been reported with the use of Lactobacillus acidophilus.

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Is Lactobacillus acidophilus safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Lactobacillus acidophilus has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women.

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

What else should I know about Lactobacillus acidophilus?

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.

Summary

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a supplement used to help regulate digestion and prevent diarrhea. Side effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus include bloating, flatulence (gas), constipation, hiccups, nausea, rash, and infection. No significant drug interactions have been reported with the use of Lactobacillus acidophilus. Consult your doctor before taking if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Treatment & Diagnosis

Medications & Supplements

Prevention & Wellness

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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Medically Reviewed on 3/7/2023
References
Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine

REFERENCE:

Medline Plus - National Library of Medicine
Medscape - Lactobacillus