Bacilax

Indications

This probiotic combination supplies about 9 billion live friendly bacteria per dose, usually a mix of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and similar strains. It is used to:

• Help prevent or reduce diarrhoea caused by antibiotics
• Support recovery from acute infectious diarrhoea, together with oral rehydration
• Ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as bloating and irregular stools in some people
• Support a healthy balance of gut bacteria

How It Works

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when taken in enough numbers, benefit the person taking them. The bacteria in this product settle in the gut for a while, compete with harmful germs for space and food, produce acids that make the gut less friendly to those germs, and help the lining of the gut and the local immune system work normally. Different strains have different effects, so benefits vary from product to product.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label, usually one capsule or sachet once or twice daily. Swallow capsules with water, or mix sachet powder with cool or room-temperature water, milk or soft food; do not mix with hot drinks, as heat kills the bacteria. When taken with an antibiotic, start on the same day and continue for about one week after the antibiotic course ends. For children, use only products and doses meant for children, as directed by a doctor.

Interactions

Antibiotics can kill the probiotic bacteria, so take the probiotic at least 2 hours before or after each antibiotic dose. Antifungal medicines may affect products that contain yeast strains. People taking medicines that suppress the immune system, such as Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus, steroids or cancer chemotherapy, should ask a doctor before use.

Contraindications

• Severely weakened immune system (for example during chemotherapy, after an organ transplant or with advanced HIV), unless a doctor advises it
• Critically ill patients, those with a central venous line, or those with recent bowel surgery
• Known allergy to any ingredient (some products contain milk protein)

Side Effects

Probiotics are generally safe. In the first few days some people notice:

• Mild bloating or wind
• Mild stomach discomfort

These usually settle as the body adjusts. Very rarely, in people with serious illness or a weak immune system, the bacteria can enter the blood and cause infection. Get urgent medical help if you develop a high fever, chills or feel very unwell while taking a probiotic, or if you have signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Probiotics are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding because they act mainly in the gut. Check with your doctor before starting any supplement during pregnancy.

Precautions and Warnings

• For diarrhoea, keep drinking fluids and use oral rehydration salts; probiotics do not replace them.
• See a doctor if diarrhoea lasts more than 2 days, or comes with blood, high fever, severe stomach pain or signs of dehydration.
• Check the label for milk, lactose or other ingredients you may be allergic to.
• Use before the expiry date, as the number of live bacteria falls over time.

Overdose

Taking more than the recommended amount is unlikely to be dangerous but may cause more bloating and wind. Return to the usual dose. Seek medical advice if you feel unwell.

Therapeutic Class

Probiotic (live bacterial supplement)

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. If the label says to refrigerate, keep at 2 to 8°C and do not freeze. Keep the pack tightly closed to protect from moisture.