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Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.
Allergies
Lactose sensitive people may develop abdominal discomfort from dairy products containing L. acidophilus.
Side Effects and Warnings
Studies report few side effects from L. acidophilus when used at recommended doses. The most common complaint is abdominal discomfort or gas, which usually resolves with continued use. Some experts recommend limiting the daily dose of living L. acidophilus organisms to reduce the risk of abdominal discomfort. Some women have reported burning of the vagina after using L. acidophilus vaginal tablets.
There are rare reports of infections of heart valves with L. acidophilus , and the risk may be greater in people with artificial heart valves. People with severely weakened immune systems (due to disease or drugs like cancer chemotherapy and organ transplant immunosuppressants) may develop serious infections or bacteria in the blood from taking L. acidophilus . Therefore, L. acidophilus should be avoided in such individuals. People with intestinal damage or recent bowel surgery should avoid taking lactobacilli.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
There is not enough scientific study available to establish safety during pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant women should use L. acidophilus cautiously and under medical supervision, if at all. A small number of pregnant women have taken part in studies investigating L. acidophilus vaginal tablets and a culture of L. acidophilus with no negative effects reported. Further research is necessary.
NS_patient-acidophilus
Portions of this document last updated:Sept. 1, 2009
THE NATURAL STANDARD RESEARCH COLLABORATION
(www.naturalstandard.com)
