Uses
What is Floratil ® used for?
Floratil® (Saccharomyces boulardii) is a probiotic preparation used to prevent diarrhea and restore the intestinal normal flora after infection or antibiotic use.
While probiotics can support a healthy gut and immune system, they do not work to treat active infections alone. Floratil is not a suitable substitute for antibiotic or antifungal treatment.
Floratil has the following uses:
- Traveler’s diarrhea
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
- Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
- Maintenance and restoration of the gut’s normal flora
How does it work?
Probiotics are known as “good germs” and play an important role in proper digestion, vitamin absorption, and innate immunity. Their presence on the skin and in the gut prevents the invasion and overgrowth of opportunistic infections from harmful bacteria and fungi.
Consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How should I take Floratil?
Floratil is available as a powder for oral suspension and capsule. The powder needs to be reconstituted with water or another beverage. Avoid mixing it into hot, iced, or alcoholic beverages as it may inactivate S. boulardii.
Swallow the capsule whole without crushing, chewing, or dissolving it. It may be taken with or without food.
How do I store Floratil?
This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Do not allow this product to freeze. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Always check the label before using this product. Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Precautions & Warnings
What should I know before using Floratil?
Biological supplements are generally safe to take in moderate amounts as directed by a health professional. However, because most supplements are not approved by the FDA for treating and preventing specific diseases, recommended daily values are not always established.
Despite being advertised as “all-natural” or “safe,” natural or food supplements must be treated as conventional medication. Certain herbal preparations can interact with other medications you are taking, increasing the risk of adverse drug reactions and toxicity.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
- You have ever had an allergic reaction to Floratil or other supplements.
- You have a history of allergy to other medications, food, or other substances.
- You are taking other medications.
- You have underlying health conditions.
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Probiotics are generally safe to take at any time because they do not enter the systemic circulation. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
Probiotics are not known to be excreted in breast milk. This drug may be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
Side Effects
What side effects can occur from Floratil?
All supplements have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this supplement include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Allergic reaction
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
What drugs may interact with Floratil?
To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and inform your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs that may reduce the effects of Floratil include:
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Laxatives
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
Does food or alcohol interact with Floratil?
This medication may be taken with or without food. If you experience any gastrointestinal discomfort, taking this medication with meals may prevent this symptom. Avoid mixing this medication with hot, iced, or alcoholic beverages as it may inactivate the probiotics.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
What health conditions may interact with Floratil?
This supplement should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
- Allergy to any of the ingredients
- Immunocompromised
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Floratil.
What is the dose of Floratil for an adult?
To treat acute diarrhea
- Take 1 to 2 capsules or sachets 2 times per day.
What is the dose of Floratil for a child?
To treat acute diarrhea
- For children ages 2 and older: Give 1 capsule or 1 to 2 sachets 2 times per day.
As prophylaxis of diarrhea during antimicrobial treatment
- Give 1 sachet mixed with water or juice 2 times per day.
How is Floratil available?
This supplement is available in the following dosage forms:
- Capsule 200 mg, 250 mg
- Powder for oral suspension 200 mg
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of this supplement, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
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