Bacillus mesentericus

Usage

Bacillus mesentericus is a probiotic bacterium, often found in multi-strain probiotic formulations, used to treat and prevent gastrointestinal disorders. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like:

• Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Infectious diarrhea
• Gastroenteritis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Constipation
• Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea
• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Traveler’s diarrhea
• Lactose intolerance
• Dysbacteriosis (gut flora imbalance)

It is also sometimes used for conditions such as allergic disorders, obesity, common cold, eczema, inflammatory arthritis, vaginal yeast infections, and urinary tract infections. Its pharmacological classification is as a probiotic.

Bacillus mesentericus contributes to gut health by producing enzymes that aid digestion and by competing with harmful bacteria. It is a spore-forming bacterium, which means it can survive the harsh acidic conditions of the stomach and reach the intestines where it can exert its beneficial effects.

Alternate Names

There are no widely recognized alternate names for Bacillus mesentericus itself. However, since it’s often used in combination with other probiotics, different formulations have different brand names. One example is Bifilac, which contains Streptococcus faecalis, Clostridium butyricum, Bacillus mesentericus, and Lactobacillus sporogenes. Another brand is Bactolac which also contains Streptococcus faecalis, Clostridium butyricum, Bacillus mesentericus, and Lactobacillus sporogenes. Vebiotic is another example of a combination formulation containing Bacillus mesentericus.

How It Works

• Pharmacodynamics: Bacillus mesentericus primarily affects the gut by improving the balance of intestinal microflora. It promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. It does so by competing for resources and altering the gut environment (pH, production of antimicrobial substances). It also improves the gastrointestinal ecology and supports a balanced inflammatory response. Certain strains assist in breaking down complex carbohydrates. It produces enzymes that help regulate abnormal bowel movements and improve nutrient absorption.
• Pharmacokinetics: Bacillus mesentericus, being a spore-forming bacteria, survives the acidic stomach environment. Once in the intestines, the spores germinate, and the bacteria proliferate and colonize. It is not systemically absorbed and therefore its effect is primarily limited to the intestinal tract. Elimination occurs mostly through feces.
• Mode of Action: Bacillus mesentericus inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It does this through both direct inhibition of growth and also by regulating abnormal bowel movements. It is also studied for potential antimicrobial properties, which may be beneficial in certain infections.
• Receptor Binding/Enzyme Inhibition: Specific receptor binding or enzyme inhibition by Bacillus mesentericus is not well-characterized.
• Elimination Pathways: Bacillus mesentericus is eliminated primarily through feces.

Dosage

Dosage depends on the specific formulation and the patient’s age and condition. The information provided here is for illustrative purposes and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Standard Dosage

Adults:

Dosage for adults varies depending on the specific product used and can range from 1 million to 2 million CFU of Bacillus mesentericus per dose, usually taken 1 to 3 times daily. Multi-strain probiotics including Bacillus mesentericus may contain different CFU of the organism, with doses often ranging from 1 million - 2 million CFU.

Children:

Dosage for children should be determined by a pediatrician, based on age, weight, and the specific product used. One study used a dose of 2g/day of a probiotic mix containing Bacillus mesentericus in infants for two weeks.

Special Cases:

• Elderly Patients: Dosage should be carefully considered in elderly patients due to potential age-related physiological changes. Consult a geriatrician for specialized advice.

• Patients with Renal Impairment: Specific dose adjustments are not well-established. Caution is advised, and monitoring of renal function is recommended.

• Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: Similar to renal impairment, there is no specific information on dose adjustments. Proceed with caution and monitor liver function.

• Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Consult a physician about potential drug interactions and necessary dose adjustments.

Clinical Use Cases

Dosage for specific clinical situations like intubation, surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, ICU use, and emergency situations is determined on a case-by-case basis by the treating physician. No general recommendations are available.

Dosage Adjustments

Dosage adjustment recommendations are lacking due to limited clinical trials on Bacillus mesentericus as a single agent. Always refer to the specific product’s instructions or consult a physician for dosage adjustments.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Gas
• Bloating
• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation

Rare but Serious Side Effects

Systemic infections are rare but have been reported, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Long-Term Effects

Long-term effects are not well documented, and further research is required.

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)

Rare ADRs have included bacteremia and other systemic infections. These ADRs may also require hospitalization.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to any component of the probiotic formulation.
• Critically ill patients.
• Patients with short bowel syndrome.
• Immunocompromised individuals, especially those with severe immunodeficiency.
• Patients with central venous catheters.

Drug Interactions

• Antibiotics: Concomitant use with antibiotics may reduce the efficacy of both the antibiotic and the probiotic. It is advisable to take probiotics at least two hours before or after antibiotics.

• Other Drugs and Supplements: No other clinically significant interactions are widely documented. Consult with a healthcare provider regarding specific drug interactions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of Bacillus mesentericus-containing products during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not conclusively established. Consult a healthcare professional before use. Some studies have suggested the use of Bacillus mesentericus along with other probiotics during pregnancy for preterm birth prevention and also to prevent certain complications.

Drug Profile Summary

• Mechanism of Action: Modulates gut microflora, may inhibit pathogen growth, and influences digestion.
• Side Effects: Generally mild; gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, constipation. Rare: systemic infections.
• Contraindications: Severe immunodeficiency, short bowel syndrome, central venous catheters, critically ill patients.
• Drug Interactions: Potential interaction with antibiotics.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Dosage: Varies depending on the product and individual patient factors.
• Monitoring Parameters: Observe for gastrointestinal issues and signs of infection.

Popular Combinations

Bacillus mesentericus is often found in combination with other probiotics, such as Clostridium butyricum, Lactobacillus sporogenes, Streptococcus faecalis, and Lactic Acid Bacillus.

Precautions

• General Precautions: Evaluate patient’s medical history, including allergies, immune status, and underlying conditions before prescribing.

• Specific Populations: See section on pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and elderly.

• Lifestyle Considerations: No specific lifestyle restrictions are documented.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Bacillus mesentericus?

A: The dosage varies depending on the product formulation, patient’s age, and specific condition being treated. Consult a healthcare professional or refer to the product’s instructions for specific dosage recommendations.

Q2: Is Bacillus mesentericus safe during pregnancy?

A: Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been fully established. It is crucial to consult a doctor before use during these periods.

Q3: Can Bacillus mesentericus be used in children?

A: Yes, but the dosage should be determined by a pediatrician.

Q4: What are the common side effects of Bacillus mesentericus?

A: Common side effects include gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and constipation. These are usually mild and transient.

Q5: Can I take Bacillus mesentericus with antibiotics?

A: It is generally advised to take probiotics, including those containing Bacillus mesentericus, at least two hours before or after antibiotics, as antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of probiotics.

Q6: What conditions is Bacillus mesentericus used to treat?

A: It’s primarily used for antibiotic-associated diarrhea, infectious diarrhea, gastroenteritis, IBD, constipation, C. difficile infections, and H. pylori infections. It is also sometimes used for other conditions like dysbacteriosis, lactose intolerance, and certain allergic disorders.

Q7: How does Bacillus mesentericus work?

A: It works by balancing the gut flora, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, and supporting healthy digestion.

Q8: Are there any serious side effects associated with Bacillus mesentericus?

A: Though rare, serious side effects such as systemic infections like bacteremia have been reported, mainly in immunocompromised individuals.

Q9: Is Bacillus mesentericus an antibiotic?

A: No, it is classified as a probiotic, not an antibiotic. Probiotics support the growth of beneficial bacteria, while antibiotics kill bacteria (both harmful and beneficial).

Q10: Does Bacillus mesentericus interact with any foods?

A: There are no specific food interactions widely reported. Maintaining good food safety practices is always recommended.