Usage
Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC is a probiotic bacterium primarily used to restore and maintain healthy gut flora. It is often used in combination with other probiotic strains, such as Streptococcus faecalis T-110 JPC, Clostridium butyricum TO-A, and Lactobacillus sporogenes (Lactic acid bacillus). Its pharmacological classification is as a probiotic or biological agent.
It is indicated for conditions like:
- Infectious Diarrhea (viral, bacterial, and protozoal)
- Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
- Lactose Intolerance
- Restoring intestinal microflora after antibiotic treatment
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- Gastroenteritis
- Dysbacteriosis
- Allergic disorders
- Obesity
- Common cold
- Eczema
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Vaginal yeast infections
- Urinary tract infections
The mechanism of action involves promoting a balanced intestinal environment, reducing the proliferation of harmful bacteria, and improving nutrient absorption. Bacillus mesentericus inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria and aids in digestion by regulating abnormal movements.
Alternate Names
Bacillus mesentericus is commonly found as a component of probiotic formulations. It is often listed in combination with other probiotic strains and doesn’t typically have a unique pharmaceutical name. Some brand names that include this combination are Colonise Forte, Bifilac HP, and Vibact.
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC, as a component of multi-strain probiotic formulations, primarily exerts its effects by promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This can involve competitive exclusion of pathogenic bacteria, production of antimicrobial substances, enhancement of the intestinal barrier function, and modulation of the host immune system. The specific strains Streptococcus faecalis T-110 JPC, Clostridium butyricum TO-A, and Lactobacillus sporogenes contribute synergistically to these effects. Clostridium butyricum TO-A, for example, produces butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid crucial for colonic health. Lactobacillus sporogenes helps maintain a balanced microflora.
Pharmacokinetics: The pharmacokinetics of Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC, when administered orally as part of a probiotic formulation, are not fully characterized as it is not absorbed systemically. It primarily resides in the gastrointestinal tract, where it exerts its effects locally. Elimination is presumed to be through fecal excretion. However, it’s important to note that the other strains included in typical formulations may exhibit different pharmacokinetic profiles. For example, lactic acid bacillus may transiently colonize the gut.
Dosage
Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC is typically found in combination with other probiotic strains, and dosages vary based on the specific product formulation. Always refer to the specific product’s packaging and prescribing information for the most accurate dosage information.
Standard Dosage
Adults: One sachet or capsule containing Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC, typically combined with other probiotics, may be taken two to three times daily or as directed by a physician.
Children: Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Special Cases: Dosage adjustments for elderly patients, those with renal/hepatic impairment, or comorbid conditions should be determined on a case-by-case basis by a physician.
Clinical Use Cases
Dosage in clinical situations depends greatly on the specific product and the patient’s condition. No specific guidelines exist for these use cases for this specific probiotic component, but a physician should evaluate each scenario and make appropriate adjustments.
- Intubation: Consult a physician.
- Surgical Procedures: Consult a physician.
- Mechanical Ventilation: Consult a physician.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Use: Consult a physician.
- Emergency Situations: Consult a physician.
Dosage Adjustments
Dose modifications based on renal/hepatic dysfunction, metabolic disorders, or genetic polymorphisms should be considered by a physician on a case-by-case basis, as there are no established guidelines for this specific probiotic strain.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Although rare, serious adverse events, like systemic infections (bacteremia, endocarditis), have been reported, especially in individuals with underlying health issues or compromised immune systems.
Long-Term Effects:
Limited data is available on the long-term effects of Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR):
Severe adverse reactions are rare but can include systemic infection.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
- Critically ill patients
- Short bowel syndrome
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can reduce the efficacy of probiotics. It’s generally recommended to separate administration by at least two hours. Some specific antibiotics, such as neomycin, aminosalicylic acid, and chloramphenicol, may have further interactions.
- Other Medications: Consult a physician regarding interactions with other medications like histamine H2-antagonists, omeprazole, colchicine, oral contraceptives, co-trimoxazole, sulfasalazine, and methotrexate.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult a physician before use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While generally considered safe, limited clinical data is available specifically for Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC. Caution is advised.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Promotes balanced gut flora, inhibits pathogenic bacteria.
- Side Effects: Gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, constipation, diarrhea. Rarely, systemic infection.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, critically ill patients, short bowel syndrome.
- Drug Interactions: Antibiotics.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a physician.
- Dosage: Varies based on product formulation. Consult product label or a healthcare professional.
- Monitoring Parameters: Observe for improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms. Not routinely monitored as medication.
Popular Combinations
Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC is often combined with Streptococcus faecalis T-110 JPC, Clostridium butyricum TO-A, and Lactic acid bacillus (Lactobacillus sporogenes). This combination provides synergistic effects for restoring intestinal microflora.
Precautions
- General Precautions: Pre-screening for allergies and underlying health conditions is recommended.
- Specific Populations: Consult a physician for use in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children, and elderly individuals.
- Lifestyle Considerations: No specific lifestyle considerations have been identified.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC?
A: The dosage varies depending on the specific product formulation. Refer to the product label or consult a healthcare professional.
Q2: Can I take this probiotic with antibiotics?
A: It is generally recommended to separate the administration of probiotics and antibiotics by at least two hours.
Q3: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects include gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, loss of appetite, and constipation or diarrhea.
Q4: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: Consult a physician before use during pregnancy. Limited data is available.
Q5: How does Bacillus mesentericus TO-A JPC work?
A: It helps restore gut flora balance, reduces harmful bacteria, and aids nutrient absorption.
Q6: What conditions is it used for?
A: It is used for conditions like infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, IBS, IBD, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Q7: Are there any drug interactions?
A: Yes, it can interact with certain antibiotics. Consult a healthcare professional about potential interactions with other medications.
Q8: What should I do if side effects persist?
A: If side effects persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Q9: Is it safe for children?
A: Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Q10: How is it administered?
A: It is usually administered orally, often in the form of a capsule or sachet that can be mixed with water or milk. Always follow the specific product’s instructions.
