Normagut (Saccharomyces boulardii, probiotic)

Normagut is a medication that contains the probiotic yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii. Probiotics support the function gastrointestinal system. S. boulardii is a nonpathogenic or “good” germ that helps restore and support the normal flora of the gut.

Probiotics do not treat infections alone. However, human trials show that probiotic supplementation can prevent and buffer some of the undesirable side effects that antibiotic therapy can cause.

Uses

What is Normagut used for?

Normagut is mainly indicated to treat the following conditions:

• Traveler’s diarrhea
• Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Maintenance and restoration of the gut’s normal flora

How should I take Normagut?

Normagut is available as an oral capsule. The oral capsule should be taken by mouth without chewing or crushing. The capsule may be opened and mixed with a glass of water or juice, if necessary. This medication can be taken with or without food.

How do I store Normagut?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Normagut?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Allergy to yeast or related substances.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions, especially:
  • Compromised immunity

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is likely safe to take. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side effects

What should I know before using Normagut?

Probiotics are only meant to supplement conventional therapies and should not be used alone when symptoms of diarrhea are already being experienced. It may be taken as a preventative measure in susceptible patients.

Because S. boulardii is a yeast or fungus, concomitant therapy to treat systemic fungal infections may negate the effects of Normagut.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Normagut?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

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 share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Antibiotics (oral, parenteral)
• Antifungal (oral, parenteral, suppositories)

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 Normagut?

The absorption rate is not affected by food intake, so this medication can be taken with or without meals. This medication does not have any significant interaction with alcohol.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.

What health conditions may interact with Normagut?

This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:

• Immunocompromised state
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Existing infection
  • Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy
  • Chronic use of corticosteroids

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 1 capsule one to two times per day.

What is the dose for a child?

Children age 2 to 12 years: 1 capsule one to two times per day. If the child is unable to swallow the capsule whole, the capsule may be opened, and the contents mixed with a glass of water or juice. Ensure that your child finishes the entire glass of the solution.

How is Normagut available?

This drug is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Oral capsule 250 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

Overdose is not likely with this medication. However, in case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, 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.