bacillus coagulans and inulin

What is the most important information I should know about bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Bacillus coagulans has been used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria," to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach and intestines. Inulin is fiber that is made from chicory roots. Inulin works in the intestines to help grow probiotic bacteria.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin is a combination product that has been used in alternative medicine as an aid in treating stomach conditions such as gas pain, constipation, or diarrhea (including viral diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, or diarrhea caused by taking antibiotic medicine). Bacillus coagulans and inulin has also been used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or stomach ulcer associated with H. pylori (Helicobacter) infection.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Before using bacillus coagulans and inulin, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this product if you have certain medical conditions.

How should I take bacillus coagulans and inulin?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use bacillus coagulans and inulin, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

If you need surgery, a medical procedure, or dental work you may need to stop taking bacillus coagulans and inulin ahead of time.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Although not all side effects are known, bacillus coagulans and inulin is thought to be possibly safe when taken by mouth for a short period of time.

• severe stomach pain;
• fever, chills; or
• worsening diarrhea.

Common side effects may include:

• stomach bloating; or
• gas.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect bacillus coagulans and inulin?

Antibiotic medicines can make bacillus coagulans and inulin much less effective when taken at the same time. If you take an antibiotic, take your bacillus coagulans and inulin dose 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take the antibiotic.

• azathioprine;
• basiliximab;
• cyclosporine;
• daclizumab;
• muromonab-CD3,
• mycophenolate;
• sirolimus, tacrolimus; or
• steroid medicine.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect bacillus coagulans and inulin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about bacillus coagulans and inulin.