Lactobacillus is a bacteria that exists naturally in the body, primarily in the intestines and the vagina. Lactobacillus helps maintain an acidic environment in the body, which can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Lactobacillus has been used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria."

Acidophilus and bulgaricus (helveticus) are two different types of lactobacillus that are combined in this product.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus has been used as a probiotic to aid in digestion, to prevent diarrhea, and to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus may work by helping the body maintain normal consistency of bacteria in the stomach and intestines.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus has not been approved by the FDA to treat any disease, and it should not be substituted for prescription medications.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus 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.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to soy products or if you are lactose intolerant.

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 take lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

Lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus is available in powder, granule, tablet, and chewable tablet forms. Some dairy products, especially yogurt, also contain lactobacillus acidophilus.

Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms of lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus at the same time, unless your healthcare professional has told you to. You may get too much of this product if you use different forms together.

The lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it. Drink a small amount of water, milk, or fruit juice after chewing and swallowing the tablet.

You may add the lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus granules to milk, cereal, or other food.

Store the tablets or granules in the refrigerator, do not freeze.

You should not use lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus if you are allergic to soy products or if you are lactose intolerant.

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

If you are diabetic, you should know that each packet of lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus granules contains 24 milligrams of sugar. Each tablet contains 12 mg of sugar.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without the advice of a doctor.

Skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose.

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

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

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

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

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.

Other drugs may affect lactobacillus acidophilus and bulgaricus, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your healthcare provider about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.