Lactocard

Indications

This probiotic combination provides about 2 billion live beneficial bacteria per dose, usually Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, sometimes with prebiotic fibre. Lower-strength products like this are often made for children as well as adults. It is used to:

• Help prevent diarrhoea linked to antibiotics
• Support recovery from acute diarrhoea, alongside oral rehydration salts and zinc in children
• Help with mild tummy upsets, wind and irregular stools
• Support a healthy balance of gut bacteria

How It Works

The live bacteria in this product temporarily settle in the intestine. There they compete with harmful germs, produce substances such as lactic acid that make the gut less welcoming to those germs, and help keep the gut lining and the local immune defences working normally. Benefits depend on the strains used.

Dosage and Administration

Use as directed on the label or by your doctor, usually one sachet, capsule or measured dose once or twice daily. Sachet powder or drops can be mixed with cool or room-temperature water, milk or soft food; never mix with hot food or drinks. For infants and young children, use only products made for their age and follow the doctor's advice. When used with an antibiotic, continue for about a week after the antibiotic course finishes.

Interactions

Antibiotics may kill the probiotic bacteria, so give the probiotic at least 2 hours apart from each antibiotic dose. People taking medicines that weaken the immune system, such as Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus, high-dose steroids or chemotherapy, should ask a doctor before use.

Contraindications

• Severely weakened immune system, unless a doctor advises it
• Critically ill patients, premature babies in hospital, or people with a central venous line, unless directed by a doctor
• Known allergy to any ingredient (some products contain milk protein)

Side Effects

Probiotics are generally safe and well tolerated. Some people have:

• Mild wind or bloating in the first few days
• Mild stomach discomfort

Very rarely, in very ill or immunocompromised people, the bacteria can cause a blood infection. Get urgent medical help if a child or adult develops a high fever, becomes very drowsy or unwell, shows signs of dehydration (very few wet nappies, sunken eyes, no tears), or has signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Probiotics are generally regarded as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor before starting any supplement in pregnancy.

Precautions and Warnings

• For diarrhoea, oral rehydration salts remain the most important treatment; keep giving fluids and food.
• See a doctor if diarrhoea lasts more than 2 days, if there is blood in the stool, high fever, repeated vomiting or signs of dehydration, especially in babies.
• Check the label for milk, lactose or other allergens.
• Use before the expiry date.

Overdose

Taking more than recommended is unlikely to be harmful but may increase wind and bloating. Go back to the usual dose and seek advice if worried.

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 sachets or the container tightly closed.