Description
Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms, including Lactobacillus species, Bifidobacterium species and yeasts, which may beneficially affect the host upon ingestion by improving the balance of the intestinal micro flora. Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the several bacteria in the genus Lactobacillus.It gets its name from lacto- meaning milk, bacillus meaning rod-like in shape and acidophilus meaning acid-loving. L. acidophilus occurs naturally in a variety of foods,including dairy, grain, meat and fish. It is also present in human (and animal) intestine, mouth and vagina.These types of healthy bacteria inhabit in the intestines and vagina and protect against some unhealthy organisms. Bifidobacteria are normal inhabitants of the human and animal colon. Newborns, especially those that are breast-fed, are colonized with bifidobacteria within days after birth. Bifidobacteria were first isolated from the feces of breast-fed infants.They are gram-positive anaerobes, non-motile, non-spore forming and catalase-negative. Their name is derived from the observation that they often exist in a 'Y'-shaped or bifid form. To date 30 species of bifidobacteria have been isolated.Lactobacillus bulgaricus is one of several bacteria used for the production of yogurt.First identified in 1905 by the Bulgarian doctor Stamen Grigorov, it is named after Bulgaria. Morphologically, it is a Gram-positive rod that may appear long and filamentous. It is also non-motile and it does not form spores.The bacterium feeds on milk and produces lactic acid which also helps to preserve the milk. It breaks down lactose and is often helpful to sufferers of lactose intolerance, whose digestive systems lack the enzymes to break down lactose to simpler sugars. While fermenting milk, Lactobacillus bulgaricus produces acetaldehyde,which perfumes yogurt.
Indication
This is indicated in the following indications-
- Diarrhea
- Digestive discomfort
- Lactose intolerance
- Vaginal infection
- Antibiotic associated diarrhea
Pharmacology
Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum appear to enhance the nonspecific immune phagocytic activity of circulating blood granulocytes. This effect may account, in part, for the stimulation of IgA responses in infants infected with rotavirus. Lactic acid bacteria, like strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus have also demonstrated antioxidant ability. Mechanisms include chelation of metal ions (iron, copper), scavenging of reactive oxygen species and reducing activity.
Adult: One or two capsules 1-2 times daily or as directed by the physician.Children (6 months & above): One sachet should be taken daily with warm milk/water at once or as directed by the physician.
Contraindications
Side Effect
No known toxicity or side-effects.
Pregnancy
Probiotics are unlikely to reach the systemic circulation of the fetus & therefore are unlikely to cause harm. Probiotics are unlikely to be transferred into breast milk
Dosage & Administration:
Adult: 1-2 capsules 1-2 times daily or as directed by the physician.
Children (6 months and above): One Probio™ sachet should be taken daily with milk/water or any other suitable liquid at normal temperature at once or as directed by the physician.
Preparation:
Capsule: 30 capsules in Alu-Alu blister pack.
Powder in Sachet: 15 sachets
Storage
Store below 25ºC, dry place and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.