Lactinex is a bacteria that exists naturally in the body, primarily in the intestines and the vagina. This medicine has been used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria."

Lactinex has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective aid in treating diarrhea in children with rotavirus.

Lactinex has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid (in children or adults) in preventing diarrhea caused by antibiotics, travel, chemotherapy, or hospitalization. This medicine is also possibly effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial vaginal infection, colic in babies, lung infections in children, skin problems in children who are allergic to milk, and other conditions.

Lactinex has also been used to treat lactose intolerance, Crohn's disease, overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines, or vaginal yeast infections caused by antibiotics. However, research has shown that this medicine may not be effective in treating these conditions.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating indigestion, urinary tract infections, intestinal problems in premature babies, high cholesterol, lyme disease, cold sores, acne, cancer, the common cold, and other conditions.

It is not certain whether Lactinex is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Lactinex 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.

Lactinex may also be used for other purposes not listed in this product guide.

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.

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 Lactinex, 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.

Lactinex is available in capsule and tablet form, or as a vaginal suppository. Powder or liquid forms may also be available. Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also contain this medicine.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

Do not use different forms of lactobacillus acidophilus at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Lactinex does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store Lactinex in a sealed container as directed on the product label, away from moisture, heat, and light.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• short bowel syndrome; or

• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra Lactinex to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid taking Lactinex within 2 hours after you take any type of antibiotic medicine.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, Lactinex is thought to be likely safe when taken for a short period of time.

Common side effects of Lactinex may include:

• 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.

Do not take Lactinex without medical advice if you are using any medications that can weaken your immune system, such as:

• medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection; or

• steroid medicine (prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and others).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with lactobacillus acidophilus, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.