B-Kill

Indications

This probiotic combination is based on Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019, usually providing about 10 billion live bacteria per dose, sometimes with other friendly bacteria and prebiotic fibre. It is used as a dietary supplement to support digestive health, such as helping with irregular bowel movements, mild constipation and bloating, to help restore gut bacteria during or after antibiotic treatment, and to support general gut and immune health. Some products are marketed for people with kidney disease; evidence for this use is limited.

How It Works

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, in adequate amounts, can benefit health. The HN019 strain can survive passage through the stomach and settle temporarily in the gut, where it helps keep a healthy balance of bacteria, may speed up slow bowel transit, and interacts with the immune cells of the gut lining. Effects vary between people, and probiotics do not cure diseases.

Dosage and Administration

Usually one capsule or sachet a day, or as directed on the label or by a doctor. It is best taken with or just after a meal. If you are taking an antibiotic, take the probiotic at least 2 to 3 hours apart from the antibiotic dose and continue for a week or two after the course. Sachet contents can be mixed with cool water or food; avoid hot drinks, which can kill the bacteria.

Interactions

• Antibiotics and antifungal medicines can kill the probiotic bacteria if taken at the same time; separate doses.
• People taking immunosuppressive medicines, such as after a transplant or during chemotherapy, should ask a doctor before use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to any ingredient, including milk proteins if present.
• Severely weakened immune system, critical illness, central venous lines, or damaged heart valves, unless a doctor approves, because of a rare risk of infection from the bacteria.
• Acute pancreatitis.

Side Effects

Probiotics are usually well tolerated. Mild gas, bloating or changes in bowel habit may occur in the first few days and usually settle.

Get urgent medical help if you develop a high fever, chills or signs of serious infection (especially if your immune system is weak), severe abdominal pain, or an allergic reaction with rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Probiotics like this are generally considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but ask your doctor before starting any supplement.

Precautions and Warnings

• See a doctor if constipation, diarrhoea or abdominal pain is severe, lasts more than a few days, or comes with blood, weight loss or fever.
• Check the label for milk, lactose or other allergens.
• A probiotic is a supplement and not a substitute for medical treatment.

Overdose

Taking extra doses is unlikely to be harmful but may cause more gas or bloating.

Therapeutic Class

Probiotic dietary supplement.

Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from heat, moisture and light, or in the fridge if the label says so. Keep the container closed and out of the reach of children.