Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast commonly used to support gut health and help manage diarrhea. It is often recommended for children and adults who are experiencing changes in their intestinal flora.
You do not need a prescription to purchase this probiotic, as it is widely available over-the-counter at pharmacies and drugstores. It typically comes in capsules to be swallowed with water or in powder packets that can be mixed into water, juice, or a baby bottle.
While it is available without a prescription, it is best to use Saccharomyces boulardii under the guidance of a healthcare professional. A pediatrician, primary care doctor, or gastroenterologist can recommend the appropriate dosage and duration of use for your specific needs.
What it is used for
Saccharomyces boulardii is often used for:
-
Restoring normal intestinal flora;
-
Diarrhea in children, particularly when caused by rotavirus;
-
Acute diarrhea in both children and adults;
-
Preventing diarrhea associated with antibiotic use.
This probiotic should be used with medical guidance. In cases of diarrhea, it is also crucial to maintain oral hydration by drinking plenty of fluids or using rehydration solutions, as directed by a doctor.
How long does it take to work?
In general, when used for acute diarrhea alongside oral rehydration therapy, probiotics may begin to take effect about two days after starting use, helping to reduce the frequency or duration of symptoms. If there is no improvement after two to three days, you should consult your doctor again.
Regarding the regulation of intestinal flora in people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), one study showed that using a probiotic containing Saccharomyces boulardii helped improve intestinal inflammation and relieve diarrhea symptoms in rats after four weeks of treatment.
How to take
Saccharomyces boulardii is taken orally. Standard recommendations for adults, children over 2 years old, and infants aged 3 to 24 months often suggest taking one packet three times a day after meals; however, it is always important to consult a doctor or registered dietitian to determine the best dose for each case.
To use the powder packet, dilute the contents in half a glass of water and drink it immediately after mixing. The powder can also be mixed into fruit juice or added directly to a baby bottle, with the treatment duration determined by a doctor.
Capsules should be taken whole with a glass of water; do not open, break, or chew them. The typical recommended dose for adults or children over 6 years old is one capsule three times a day for five days, or as directed by a physician.
Generally, when using probiotics to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, it is recommended to wait three hours between taking the antibiotic and the probiotic.
Possible side effects
Side effects of Saccharomyces boulardii are rare, but in some cases, allergic reactions may occur. Symptoms can include itching, redness, swelling, or a rash on the skin.
Who should not take it
Saccharomyces boulardii should not be used by people with a central venous catheter, damage to the digestive lining, or immune system problems. It should also be avoided by those currently being treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, as these conditions can increase the risk of fungal infections during treatment.
This probiotic should not be used by anyone with an allergy to any components of the formula.
Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before starting this supplement.
For children under 3 years old, probiotics should only be used under the supervision of a pediatrician due to a higher risk of complications, especially in children with weakened immune systems.
Formulations of Saccharomyces boulardii may contain lactose, so people with lactose intolerance should use them with caution.