How to use Culturelle probiotics safely. What are the potential side effects of Culturelle. When should you consult a doctor while taking Culturelle. How does Culturelle interact with other medications.

Understanding Culturelle Probiotics: Uses and Administration

Culturelle is a popular probiotic supplement designed to support digestive and immune health. To ensure optimal benefits and minimize potential risks, it’s crucial to understand how to use this product correctly.

Proper Usage Guidelines

When using Culturelle, always adhere to the instructions provided on the product package. Different formulations may have specific requirements:

• Some doses should be swallowed whole
• Others may need to be chewed
• Certain forms can be sprinkled onto food
• Some varieties can be mixed with liquid

For liquid formulations, precise measurement is essential. Use the provided measuring device to ensure accurate dosing. Avoid using household spoons, as they may lead to incorrect amounts.

Timing Considerations with Antibiotics

Many probiotic products, including some Culturelle formulations, contain live bacteria such as bifidobacteria. To maintain their effectiveness, it’s important to consider the timing when taking antibiotics:

Take probiotic products containing live bacteria at least 2 to 3 hours before or after antibiotic doses. This separation helps prevent the antibiotics from neutralizing the beneficial bacteria in the probiotic supplement.

Potential Side Effects of Culturelle Probiotics

While Culturelle is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. It’s important to be aware of these potential reactions and know when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of Culturelle include:

• Increased stomach gas
• Bloating

These effects are usually mild and transient. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

While rare, some users may experience more severe reactions. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any of the following:

1. Signs of infection (e.g., persistent cough, high fever, chills)
2. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
   • Rash
   • Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat
   • Severe dizziness
   • Difficulty breathing

Are there other potential side effects not listed here? Yes, this list is not exhaustive. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Culturelle, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Precautions and Considerations Before Using Culturelle

Before incorporating Culturelle into your health regimen, it’s essential to consider various factors that may affect its safety and efficacy.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, including allergies to the active ingredients in Culturelle or any of its inactive components. Some formulations may contain ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Pre-existing Health Conditions

Certain health conditions may require extra caution when using Culturelle. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you have:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days, especially with a high fever
• A weakened immune system (e.g., due to chemotherapy or HIV infection)
• Recurring vaginal infections
• Recurring urinary tract infections

Special Populations

Extra care is needed for certain groups:

Diabetics and individuals with PKU: Some Culturelle products may contain sugar or aspartame. Check the ingredients carefully and consult your healthcare provider about safe usage.

Pregnant women: Use Culturelle during pregnancy only when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

Breastfeeding mothers: The safety of Culturelle during breastfeeding is not well-established. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Culturelle and Drug Interactions

Understanding potential drug interactions is crucial for safe and effective use of Culturelle probiotics.

Medications That May Interact with Culturelle

While Culturelle is generally safe, it may interact with certain medications:

• Antibiotics
• Antifungals (e.g., clotrimazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, nystatin)

How can you manage potential drug interactions? Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking, including Culturelle. They can provide guidance on proper timing and dosage to minimize interaction risks.

Importance of Full Disclosure to Healthcare Providers

Maintain an up-to-date list of all products you use, including:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Herbal supplements
• Probiotic products like Culturelle

Share this list with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure comprehensive care and minimize the risk of adverse interactions.

Culturelle in Special Situations: Surgery and Medical Procedures

When preparing for medical procedures or surgeries, it’s crucial to consider the impact of all supplements, including Culturelle.

Pre-Surgical Considerations

Before undergoing any surgical procedure, inform your healthcare team about your use of Culturelle. This disclosure is essential because:

• Some supplements can affect blood clotting
• Certain products may interact with anesthesia
• Your surgeon needs a complete picture of your health status

Should you stop taking Culturelle before surgery? The decision to continue or discontinue Culturelle before a medical procedure should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. They will consider factors such as the type of surgery, your overall health, and potential risks.

Post-Surgical Care

After surgery, your healthcare provider will guide you on when it’s safe to resume taking Culturelle. This timing may depend on:

• The type of surgery you underwent
• Your recovery progress
• Any medications you’re taking as part of your post-surgical care

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding supplement use during the recovery period.

Managing Culturelle Overdose and Missed Doses

While Culturelle is generally safe, it’s important to know how to handle situations involving incorrect dosage.

Overdose Scenarios

In the event of a Culturelle overdose, immediate action may be necessary:

• For severe symptoms (e.g., loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties): Call emergency services immediately (911 in the US)
• For less severe cases: Contact a poison control center promptly
  • US residents: 1-800-222-1222
  • Canadian residents: Call your provincial poison control center

What are the potential consequences of a Culturelle overdose? While severe reactions are rare, an overdose could potentially lead to digestive discomfort or other adverse effects. Professional medical guidance is crucial in such situations.

Missed Doses

If you forget to take a dose of Culturelle:

1. Take it as soon as you remember
2. If it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
3. Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one

Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule helps optimize the benefits of Culturelle. Consider setting reminders or incorporating it into your daily routine to minimize missed doses.

Long-Term Use and Monitoring While Taking Culturelle

For those using Culturelle as part of their long-term health regimen, ongoing monitoring and regular check-ins with healthcare providers are essential.

Importance of Regular Medical Check-ups

While using Culturelle, it’s crucial to:

• Keep all scheduled medical appointments
• Attend regular lab tests as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Report any changes in your health or new symptoms promptly

These check-ups allow your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of Culturelle and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Understanding Product Variations

Culturelle products may contain additional ingredients beyond probiotics, such as:

• Fiber
• Inulin
• Other supportive components

If you have questions about the specific ingredients in your Culturelle product, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can provide detailed information and address any concerns about long-term use or potential interactions with your current health status or other medications.

How often should you review your probiotic regimen with a healthcare provider? It’s advisable to discuss your Culturelle use at least annually or more frequently if you experience any changes in your health or medication regimen.

Culturelle oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

How to use Culturelle HEALTH & WELLNESS

Follow all directions on the product package. Refer to the label directions for your specific product to see if the dose should be swallowed whole, chewed, sprinkled onto food or mixed with liquid. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Some probiotic products may contain live bacteria (such as bifidobacteria). Antibiotics may prevent these products from working well. Take any product containing live bacteria at least 2 to 3 hours before or after taking antibiotics. Follow the directions for your specific product.

If you are taking this product for diarrhea due to antibiotics, do not use it if you have a high fever or for more than 2 days, unless directed by your doctor. You may have a serious problem that requires medical treatment.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

An increase in stomach gas or bloating may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of infection (such as cough that doesn’t go away, high fever, chills).

A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: diarrhea lasting more than 2 days (especially if you also have a high fever), weakened immune system (such as due to chemotherapy, HIV infection), recurring vaginal infections, recurring urinary tract infections.

Liquid products, foods, powders, or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Consult your pharmacist or physician.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some medications that may interact with certain probiotics include: antibiotics, antifungals (such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, nystatin).

Does Culturelle HEALTH & WELLNESS interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Some brands may also contain other ingredients, such as fiber or inulin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about the ingredients in your brand.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different types of probiotics may have different storage needs. Some may require refrigeration while others should not be refrigerated. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your product. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Culturelle 10 billion cell capsule

Color: whiteShape: oblongImprint:

This medicine is a white, oblong, capsule

Culturelle 15 billion cell sprinkle capsule

Color: clearShape: oblongImprint:

This medicine is a white, oblong, capsule

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

5 Possible Side Effects of Probiotics

While probiotics may provide health benefits, they can also cause side effects, including bloating. They may also not be safe for some people.

Probiotics are living bacteria and yeasts that provide health benefits when consumed in large amounts.

They can be taken as supplements or consumed naturally through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha (1, 2, 3, 4).

The health benefits of probiotic supplements and foods have been well documented, including a lower risk of infections, improved digestion and even a reduced risk for some chronic diseases (5, 6, 7, 8).

While there are many health benefits linked to taking probiotics, there can also be side effects. Most of these are minor and only affect a small percentage of the population.

However, some people with serious illnesses or compromised immune systems may experience more severe complications.

This article reviews the most common side effects of probiotics and how to reduce them.

1. They May Cause Unpleasant Digestive Symptoms

While most people do not experience side effects, the most commonly reported reaction to bacteria-based probiotic supplements is a temporary increase in gas and bloating (9).

Those taking yeast-based probiotics may experience constipation and increased thirst (10).

It is not known exactly why some people experience these side effects, but they typically subside after a few weeks of continued use (9).

To reduce the likelihood of side effects, start with a low dose of probiotics and slowly increase to the full dosage over a few weeks. This can help your body adjust to them.

If the gas, bloating or any other side effects continue for more than a few weeks, stop taking the probiotic and consult a medical professional.

Summary

Some people experience an increase in gas, bloating, constipation or thirst when they start taking probiotics. These side effects should go away within a few weeks.

2. Amines in Probiotic Foods May Trigger Headaches

Some probiotic-rich foods, like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi, contain biogenic amines (11, 12).

Biogenic amines are substances that form when protein-containing foods age or are fermented by bacteria (13).

The most common amines found in probiotic-rich foods include histamine, tyramine, tryptamine and phenylethylamine (14).

Amines can excite the central nervous system, increase or decrease blood flow and may trigger headaches in people sensitive to the substance (15, 16).

One study found that low-histamine diets reduced headaches in 75% of participants. However, a review of 10 controlled studies found no significant effect of dietary amines on headaches (17, 18).

More research is needed to determine whether or not amines can be direct triggers of headaches or migraines in some people.

Keeping a food diary including any headache symptoms you might experience can help clarify whether fermented foods are problematic for you.

If probiotic-rich foods trigger your symptoms, a probiotic supplement may be a better choice.

Summary

Fermented foods rich in probiotics naturally contain amines. Some people may experience headaches after eating these foods, and should instead opt for probiotic supplements.

3. Some Strains Can Increase Histamine Levels

Some bacterial strains used in probiotic supplements can produce histamine inside the digestive tract of humans (19, 20, 21).

Histamine is a molecule that is normally produced by your immune system when it detects a threat.

When histamine levels rise, blood vessels dilate to bring more blood to the affected area. The vessels also become more permeable so that immune cells can easily get into the relevant tissue to combat any pathogens (22).

This process creates redness and swelling in the affected area, and can also trigger allergy symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, runny nose or trouble breathing.

Normally, histamine that is produced in your digestive tract is naturally degraded by an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO). This enzyme inhibits histamine levels from rising enough to cause symptoms (23).

However, some people with histamine intolerance have trouble properly breaking down the histamine in their bodies, seeing as they do not produce enough DAO (24, 25, 26).

The excess histamine is then absorbed through the lining of the intestinal tract and into the bloodstream, causing symptoms similar to an allergic reaction (27).

People with a histamine intolerance should avoid foods that contain excess histamine (28).

Theoretically, they may want to select probiotic supplements that do not contain histamine-producing bacteria, but to date, there has been no research on this specific area.

Some histamine-producing probiotic strains include Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Streptococcus thermophilus (29, 30, 31).

Summary

Some probiotics can produce histamine within the digestive tract. Those with histamine intolerance may want to avoid these strains of bacteria.

4. Some Ingredients May Cause Adverse Reactions

People with allergies or intolerances should read the labels of probiotic supplements carefully, since they might contain ingredients they could react to.

For example, some of the supplements contain allergens such as dairy, egg or soy.

These ingredients should be avoided by anyone who is allergic, as they may trigger an allergic reaction. If necessary, read labels carefully to avoid these ingredients (32).

Similarly, yeast-based probiotics should not be taken by those with yeast allergies. Instead, a bacteria-based probiotic should be used (33).

Milk sugar, or lactose, is also used in many probiotic supplements (34).

While studies suggest that most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate up to 400 mg of lactose in medications or supplements, there have been case reports of adverse effects from probiotics (35, 36, 37).

Since a small number of people with lactose intolerance may experience unpleasant gas and bloating when consuming lactose-containing probiotics, they may want to choose lactose-free products.

In addition to containing powerful probiotics, some supplements also contain prebiotics. These are plant fibers that humans cannot digest, but that bacteria can consume as food. The most common types are lactulose, inulin and various oligosaccharides (38).

When a supplement contains both probiotic microorganisms and prebiotic fibers, it is called a synbiotic (39).

Some people experience gas and bloating when consuming synbiotics. Those who experience these side effects may want to select a supplement that does not contain prebiotics (40).

Summary

Probiotic supplements can contain allergens, lactose or prebiotic fibers that may cause adverse reactions in some people. These ingredients can be avoided by reading labels.

5. They Can Increase Infection Risk for Some

Probiotics are safe for the vast majority of the population, but may not be the best fit for everyone.

In rare cases, the bacteria or yeasts found in probiotics can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in susceptible individuals (41, 42, 43, 44).

Those at greatest risk for infection from probiotics include people with suppressed immune systems, prolonged hospitalizations, venous catheters or those who have undergone recent surgeries (45, 46, 47).

However, the risk of developing an infection is very low, and no serious infections have been reported in clinical studies of the general population.

It is estimated that only about one in one million people who take probiotics containing Lactobacilli bacteria will develop an infection. The risk is even smaller for yeast-based probiotics, with only about one in 5.6 million users getting infected (48, 49).

When infections do occur, they typically respond well to traditional antibiotics or antifungals. However, in rare cases, deaths have occurred (48, 50).

Research also suggests that people with severe acute pancreatitis should not take probiotics, as this may increase the risk of death (51).

Summary

People with compromised immune systems, venous catheters, recent surgery, acute pancreatitis or prolonged hospitalizations should avoid taking probiotics.

The Bottom Line

Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in large quantities. They can be taken as supplements, but also occur naturally in fermented foods.

Probiotics are safe for the majority of the population, but side effects can occur. The most common side effects are a temporary increase in gas, bloating, constipation and thirst.

Some people can also react poorly to ingredients used in probiotic supplements or to naturally occurring amines in probiotic foods. If this occurs, stop using probiotics.

In rare cases, people with compromised immune systems, prolonged hospitalizations or recent surgeries may develop an infection from probiotic bacteria. People with these conditions should weigh the risks and benefits before consuming probiotics.

Overall, probiotics are a beneficial addition to most people’s diet or supplement regimen, with relatively few and unlikely side effects.

Side effects of probiotics

09/27/2021

Probiotics are microorganisms that are beneficial to the human body. Most of these are bacterial strains that are similar to those found in human stomach .

Probiotics are used in dietary supplement formulations to improve overall well-being. Sometimes doctor recommends them along with regular medicines.

In this case, the probiotic is considered as a complementary and alternative medicine.

Probiotics are usually given during or after antibiotic treatment to replace the loss of beneficial bacteria.

Possible side effects of probiotics.

Despite claims of health benefits from probiotics, the safety of such therapeutic formulations is still an issue among users. The fact is that they are sold as dietary supplements, and there are no strict rules for releasing probiotics on the market. Unlike medications and medicines, the ingredients used and how these supplements are made are not carefully studied.

To date, there have been no reported serious health complications associated with taking probiotics. In healthy individuals, taking the recommended dose of these supplements does not cause any significant side effect. Sometimes probiotics lead to mild digestive problems such as flatulence, bloating , diarrhea and abdominal pain .

If probiotics are taken in an increased dose, there is a possibility of headaches and infections. In addition, taking large doses of probiotics can disrupt normal metabolic processes and autoimmune reactions of the body. It is advisable to gradually increase the dose and only after approval doctor .

In people with an underlying disease or an impaired immune system , probiotics can lead to potential health problems. In fact, these patients are at a higher risk of developing infection after using probiotics.

Supplements contain living organisms and taking them may change the balance of the body’s flora. Symptoms such as bloody stools, skin rash, and fever are signs of an intestinal infection. According to medical research, there is a possibility that probiotics interact with immunosuppressants leading to life-threatening conditions. Therefore, those taking immunosuppressants should strictly avoid these supplements. It should be noted that the effects of a particular probiotic differ from others.

Always consult a qualified physician before deciding which one is right for you. The question lies in choosing a particular probiotic strain suitable for its intake. Since there are no standard rules for the production of probiotic products, one of the main concerns is contamination with toxic chemicals or other unwanted substances.

Read the product label carefully and check the ingredients at the time of purchase. The simple solution is to buy it from a trusted source.

Therapeutic effect.

Although probiotics have been used in food and alcohol fermentation for centuries, they were only introduced for medicinal use in the 20th century. They are prescribed for the effective treatment of various health problems such as lactose intolerance, candidiasis , skin allergies , food allergies , preterm labor , diarrhea , intestinal infections, constipation, vaginitis.

Studies have shown that taking probiotics in appropriate doses promotes a healthy digestive system and immune system . Probiotics are believed to help regulate cholesterol and blood pressure .

Form and dosage.

• Probiotics are found in the form of tablets, powders, capsules and other complementary forms.
• Probiotics should not be taken as a substitute for prescribed medications.
• Strictly follow the advice of doctor regarding the type of probiotic, its dose and period of administration.

In the event of any undesirable symptom occurring after the administration of probiotics, a doctor should be consulted .

Published in Premium Clinic Medicines

Probiotics and Prebiotics – Common Side Effects

Pre- and probiotics are very commonly used to balance the gastrointestinal microflora. But is the use of these usual drugs always justified, because they also have side effects?

– In the process of accumulating new scientific data, it has been established that the total number of microbiota cells is about 1 trillion bacteria weighing 2. 5-3 kg. In particular, the human microbiota includes 17 families, 45 genera, 500 species of predominantly anaerobic bacteria, the ratio of which to aerobic microorganisms is 1000:1. The total genome of the microbiota is 400,000 genes, while the human genome contains only about 25,000 genes. In each person, the microbiota has a pronounced individual character at the species and strain levels: only 18 species of bacteria and strains are found in all people, 57 – in 90%, 75 – 50%.

The coexistence of a person with such a huge number of microorganisms cannot be indifferent, it implies the development of close relationships and the integration of various functions of the microbiota into the life support of the body, – pays attention to the pediatrician, nutritionist Vera Braiko .

In a number of complex pathological conditions occurring against the background of disturbed normal microflora of the human body, probiotic and prebiotic preparations are prescribed. Most often, such therapy is indicated for various disorders in the gastrointestinal tract, infection with helminths, in the treatment of respiratory infections, in the complex treatment of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, immune disorders, and allergies of various origins.

Prebiotic and/or Probiotic: Two Stronger

Prebiotics are organic chemical compounds, that is, the environment that is necessary for the growth of probiotics. Such non-microbial compounds contribute to the formation of healthy microflora by stimulating their own reserves, that is, they activate the reproduction of beneficial bacteria. But probiotics are “live” microorganisms that populate the intestines with beneficial flora.

The common feature of these drugs is a positive effect on the entire human body due to the normalization of the intestinal microflora. To obtain the maximum positive effect, these two types of drugs are often prescribed simultaneously, since their interaction enhances the therapeutic effect. What explains this synergy? Under the influence of gastric juice, probiotics are partially destroyed, in addition, in the presence of dysbacteriosis, disturbances in the intestinal mucosa often develop, as a result of which it is difficult for beneficial microorganisms to take root. Thus, the simultaneous intake of pre- and probiotics, their therapeutic effects complement each other and most effectively cope with the difficult task of restoring the human microflora to a normal level.

The best prebiotics are drugs that do not contain starch and contain lactulose. It is the latter that effectively promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. But there are several groups of probiotics. All of them differ in composition and mechanism of action. To choose the most suitable one, you need to know the reason for the deficiency of beneficial microorganisms.

What pre- and probiotics can do

It is known that probiotics, like drugs, have a large number of useful properties: they fight pathogenic microflora, help eliminate inflammatory processes in the digestive system, have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, help break down and assimilate food , improve metabolic processes, have a positive effect on overall immunity. But prebiotics, stimulating the reproduction of beneficial microorganisms, perform a number of other important functions: they reduce the acidity of the stomach, thanks to dietary fiber they provide a feeling of satiety for a long time, help strengthen the intestinal mucosa, accelerate the breakdown of fats and simple sugars.

When you need probiotics and prebiotics

Taking probiotics and prebiotics becomes a necessity when you need to create conditions for the intake of dietary fiber and beneficial microorganisms. The main causes of violations:

• taking antibacterial drugs;
• recovery period after chemotherapy;
• various gastrointestinal disorders;
• metabolic disorders;
• vitamin deficiency states;
• allergic diseases;
• various skin pathologies;
• chronic and infectious diseases.

Despite the many positive characteristics, biologics should only be taken after consulting a doctor, otherwise there is a risk of side effects.

Attention: there are contraindications

Prebiotics, if it is a one-component preparation, has no contraindications. Many modern pharmaceuticals include both probiotics and prebiotics, which enhances their effectiveness and therapeutic effect. Such drugs are also considered safe.

But probiotics have some side effects and contraindications.

First of all, it must be remembered that when using pre- and probiotics in childhood, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the doses and appropriate regimens of drug intake, otherwise there is a high risk of changing the ratio of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microbes.

Probiotic compounds may contain hidden food allergens and may not be safe to use in people who are allergic to cow’s milk or chicken eggs.

In rare cases, and primarily in immunocompromised patients, cases of bacteremia and sepsis caused by probiotic bacteria have been described.

Long-term use of probiotics at the same time as a number of antibiotics can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, and the resistance gene can be transferred to other bacteria.

In addition, the risk group includes sick children with malignant neoplasms receiving glucocorticosteroids, radiation and chemotherapy.

Case reports of sepsis emphasize that probiotics should be used with caution in patients with central venous catheters, prolonged hospitalization, and known or suspected intestinal mucosal disruption.

Be especially careful with products containing only one bacterial strain, as long-term use may suppress other beneficial bacterial strains.

At the beginning of the intake, sometimes there is increased gas formation, as well as a feeling of thirst. In the case of a long therapeutic course, complaints of constipation appear. Such phenomena are most often associated with the individual reaction of the body.

Headaches are rare when taking probiotics. A negative reaction is caused by biogenic amines, which are part of probiotics. These substances have an activating effect on the central nervous system, which is the cause of headaches.