Florastor drug: Uses, indications and notes when using

Probiotics contain different types of microorganisms such as yeast (saccharomyces boulardii) and bacteria (such as lactobacillus, bifidobacterium). Microorganisms are found naturally in the stomach/intestines/vagina. Certain conditions (such as antibiotic use, travel) can change the normal balance of bacteria/yeast. Florastor is used to improve digestion and restore normal microflora.

Probiotics have been used to treat bowel problems (such as diarrhea, irritable bowel), eczema, vaginal yeast infections, lactose intolerance, and urinary tract infections.
Probiotics are available in foods (such as yogurt, milk, juices, soy drinks) and as functional foods (capsules, tablets, powders). Florastor is one of those products. Different products have different uses. Check the label for usage information for your specific product.

Follow all instructions on the Florastor product package. Refer to the directions on the label for your particular product to see if the medicine should be swallowed whole, chewed, sprinkled on food, or mixed with liquid. If you have any questions about how to use Florastor, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Some probiotic products may contain live bacteria (such as bifidobacteria). Antibiotics can prevent these products from working well. Take any product containing live bacteria at least 2 to 3 hours before or after taking antibiotics. Follow the instructions for your specific product. If you are taking a Florastor product to treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea, do not use it if you have a high fever or for more than 2 days, unless directed by your doctor. Because these signs indicate that you may have a serious problem that requires medical treatment. If your condition persists or worsens after using Florastor, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

There may be an increase in gas in the stomach or flatulence when using Florastor. If this effect persists or worsens, tell your doctor right away.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects of Florastor occur: Signs of infection (such as high fever, chills, persistent cough).
A very serious allergic reaction to a Florastor product is very rare. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction to Florastor: Rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), trouble breathing, severe dizziness seek medical attention immediately.
This is not a complete list of Florastor possible side effects. If you notice other effects of Florastor not listed above, contact your doctor right away.

Before using a Florastor product, tell your doctor if you are allergic to this medicine and any other allergies if any. Florastor products may contain inactive ingredients, and they may cause allergic reactions or other problems.
If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using Florastor: Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days (especially if you have a high fever), immune system impairment (eg, due to chemotherapy, HIV infection), recurrent pelvic inflammatory disease, recurrent urinary tract infections.
Florastor liquid, food, powder or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution should be exercised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor about safely using Florastor in these circumstances.
Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Florastor.
Women during pregnancy, should use this product Florastor only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits of the drug with your doctor. It is not known whether Florastor passes into breast milk. Women who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using Florastor.

Drug interactions can change the way Florastor works or increase your risk of serious side effects. Make a list of all the medications you take (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine while you are using Florastor, without your doctor's approval.
Some drugs can interact with some probiotics such as Florastor, such drugs include: Antibiotics, antifungal drugs (such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, griseofulvin, nystatin).

If you or someone else has overdosed on Florastor and has severe symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
If you miss a dose of Florastor, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose of Florastor at the usual time, do not double your usual dose.

Different probiotics may have different preservation needs. Some products may require refrigeration while others should not be refrigerated. Check your Florastor product package for instructions on how to properly store it. If you have any questions about storing Florastor, ask your pharmacist. Keep Florastor away from children and pets.
Do not flush Florastor down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Dispose of this product appropriately when it expires or is no longer needed.

Reference source: webmd.com