Acidophilus is the naturally occurring bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus. These healthy bacteria are present in your digestive tract and, in women, the vagina, where they help protect against pathogenic bacteria. If you have questions or concerns about adding an over-the-counter acidophilus dietary supplement to your daily regimen, consult your doctor.
Benefits
You may benefit from treatment with an acidophilus supplement if you suffer from antibiotic-induced diarrhea or chronic oral or vaginal yeast infections. These health conditions are typically caused by an imbalance of healthy bacteria in your body. Incorporating this supplement into your daily diet can help repopulate your digestive tract or vagina with healthy bacteria, which may diminish, treat or prevent uncomfortable symptoms. Acidophilus supplements may also help reduce symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic constipation or high cholesterol; however, additional research is necessary to support these purported medical benefits of acidophilus, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns.
Side Effects
Adverse side effects typically do not occur following treatment with acidophilus supplements. Minor stomach discomfort such as bloating or gas may occur in some people who take this supplement orally. Women who vaginally administer this supplement may experience mild vaginal burning or discomfort. If intestinal or vaginal side effects persist or become severe, contact your doctor for further evaluation and care.
Medication Interactions
Always discuss all medications or supplements you are taking with your medical provider before beginning treatment with a new drug or dietary supplement. Concomitant use of an over-the-counter acidophilus supplement and sulfasalazine may increase the rate at which your body absorbs this prescription medication, the UMMC warns.
Contraindications
Talk with your physician about any health problems you may have before taking an acidophilus supplement. Do not take this supplement if you have an artificial heart valve, as acidophilus supplementation may increase your risk of developing a rare but potentially fatal bacterial infection, MayoClinic.com reports. Additionally, if you have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or disease therapy, consult your doctor before taking acidophilus. The safety of acidophilus has not been fully evaluated in pregnant or breastfeeding women and should only be used by such women if recommended by a doctor. If you are lactose intolerant, you may be more likely to experience side effects if you take an acidophilus supplement that contains milk or dairy.
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