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Probiotics

Brand names: Culturelle, Florastor, Align

Probiotics are live 'good' bacteria or yeast. Some strains may help prevent antibiotic-related diarrhea, but evidence is mixed for most uses.

Brand namesCulturelle, Florastor, Align
Type of medicineDietary supplement
Prescription?Over the counter (dietary supplement)
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Products and strains differ; benefits for one strain don't apply to others.

What it's used for

  • Possibly lowering diarrhea risk with antibiotics
  • Some IBS symptoms

How to take it

  • Follow the label. Take antibiotic-related probiotics a few hours apart from the antibiotic.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Gas
  • Bloating
Call your provider todayFever or feeling very ill in someone with a weak immune system or a central line

Warnings

  • Not for premature babies or people who are seriously ill or immunocompromised unless a provider recommends it.
  • Supplements aren't tightly regulated.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Antifungals kill yeast probiotics like Saccharomyces.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.