Bio-Kult

Indications

This is a multi-strain probiotic supplement containing 14 different strains of live, friendly bacteria (usually Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus thermophilus and related species). It is used to support a healthy balance of gut bacteria, to help reduce diarrhoea linked to antibiotics, to ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as bloating and irregular stools, and to support digestion during travel or after a stomach upset. It is a food supplement, not a treatment for serious bowel disease.

How It Works

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when taken in enough numbers, may benefit health. The bacteria in this product pass into the intestine, where they help crowd out harmful germs, produce substances that keep the gut lining healthy, and help digest food. Using several strains together is meant to cover more of the roles played by normal gut bacteria. The effects depend on the strain and are generally mild and last only while the product is taken.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label, usually once a day with or just before a meal, swallowed with water. Do not take with hot drinks, as heat can kill the bacteria. If you are taking an antibiotic, keep the probiotic at least 2 hours apart from it and continue for some days after the antibiotic course ends.

Interactions

• Antibiotics and antifungal medicines can kill the probiotic bacteria; take them at least 2 hours apart.
• People taking medicines that weaken the immune system, such as Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus, cancer chemotherapy or high-dose steroids, should use probiotics only on a doctor's advice.

Contraindications

• Severely weakened immune system, for example during chemotherapy, after an organ transplant or in advanced HIV, unless a doctor advises it.
• Critically ill people, people with a central line (a long-term drip in a large vein), or with acute pancreatitis.
• Allergy to any ingredient, including milk proteins if present.

Side Effects

Mild wind, bloating or a change in bowel habit may occur in the first few days and usually settles. Allergic reactions are rare.

Get urgent medical help if you develop high fever with chills, severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. In very rare cases, probiotic bacteria have caused blood infections in very ill people.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Common probiotic strains are generally considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, as very little enters the bloodstream. Still, check with your doctor before starting any supplement during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• See a doctor for diarrhoea that lasts more than 2 days, contains blood, or comes with fever or dehydration; in children, see a doctor sooner.
• Premature babies and very young infants should receive probiotics only under medical supervision.
• Check the label for milk, soy or gluten if you have an allergy.

Overdose

Taking more than recommended is unlikely to be dangerous in healthy people but may cause more wind, bloating or loose stools. Seek advice if symptoms are severe.

Therapeutic Class

Probiotic food supplement.

Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children, or in a refrigerator (2 to 8°C) if the pack says so. Keep the container tightly closed to protect it from moisture.