Clostridium butryricum

Usage

• Medical Conditions: Clostridium butyricum is primarily used as a probiotic for the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and to support overall gut health.

• Pharmacological Classification: Probiotic

• Mechanism of Action: C. butyricum exerts its therapeutic effects mainly through the production of butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA). Butyrate serves as the primary energy source for colonocytes, promoting a healthy gut environment by:

  • Inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria
  • Enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria
  • Improving intestinal barrier function
  • Modulating the immune system.

Alternate Names

• Clostridium butyricum TO-A
• Miya-Gold EU (contains Clostridium butyricum MIYARI 588)
• Miya-Gold S (contains Clostridium butyricum MIYARI 588)

How It Works

• Pharmacodynamics: C. butyricum produces butyrate, which acts as an energy source for colonocytes, promotes a healthy gut microbiome, and modulates immune responses.

• Pharmacokinetics: While specific pharmacokinetic data isn’t readily available for C. butyricum as a probiotic, it is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. It primarily colonizes the gut and its effects are localized within the gastrointestinal tract. Butyrate produced by C. butyricum is absorbed by colonocytes and contributes to their energy metabolism.

• Mode of Action/Receptor binding/Enzyme Inhibition/Neurotransmitter modulation: C. butyricum’s main mechanism of action is through the production of butyrate. Butyrate has multiple effects on intestinal cells:

  • Energy Source: Butyrate is the preferred energy source for colonocytes, promoting their health and integrity.
  • Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibition: Butyrate acts as an HDAC inhibitor, influencing gene expression and potentially having anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.
  • G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activation: Butyrate can also activate certain GPCRs, affecting gut motility and secretion.

• Elimination Pathways: Butyrate produced by C. butyricum is primarily metabolized by colonocytes for energy. Excess butyrate may be absorbed and metabolized by the liver or excreted in the feces.

Dosage

Standard Dosage

Adults: A common dosage in combination probiotic formulations includes 2 million spores of C. butyricum TO-A. Administer once or twice daily. Dosages may vary depending on the product.

Children: Dosing in children should be determined by a pediatrician, considering the child’s age, weight, and the specific medical condition.

Special Cases: Dosage adjustments may be necessary for individual patients based on clinical status. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage.

Clinical Use Cases

Specific dosage recommendations for medical settings involving C. butyricum haven’t been explicitly established in the current literature. Probiotic use in clinical settings is complex and requires careful consideration.

Dosage Adjustments: Dose modifications based on renal/hepatic dysfunction, metabolic disorders, or genetic polymorphisms haven’t been explicitly defined for C. butyricum.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas.

Rare but Serious Side Effects: Rarely, severe allergic reactions can occur.

Long-Term Effects: Limited data exists on long-term effects.

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR): Clinically significant ADRs are rare.

Contraindications

• Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to C. butyricum or any components of the formulation should avoid its use.

Drug Interactions

Limited information is available about specific drug interactions with C. butyricum. Consult with a healthcare professional about potential interactions, especially if the patient is on other medications.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of C. butyricum during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been definitively established. Consult with a healthcare professional before using during these periods.

Drug Profile Summary

• Mechanism of Action: Produces butyrate, which promotes colonocyte health, inhibits pathogenic bacteria, modulates the immune system, and influences gene expression.

• Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated; mild gastrointestinal issues possible.

• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to C. butyricum.

• Drug Interactions: Limited information available; consult a healthcare professional.

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Safety not established; consult a healthcare professional.

• Dosage: Varies depending on the product; typically 2 million spores once or twice daily for adults. Pediatric dosing should be determined by a pediatrician.

• Monitoring Parameters: Monitor for resolution of gastrointestinal symptoms and any adverse reactions.

Popular Combinations

C. butyricum is often combined with other probiotics for enhanced efficacy. Specific combinations and their rationales vary depending on the clinical indication.

Precautions

• General Precautions: Evaluate for allergies before administering.

• Specific Populations (Pregnant Women, Breastfeeding Mothers, Children, Elderly, Menstruating Individuals): Insufficient safety data; exercise caution.

• Lifestyle Considerations: No specific lifestyle restrictions associated with C. butyricum use are known.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Clostridium butyricum?

A: Dosing varies depending on the product and the patient’s age and condition. A common dosage for adults is 2 million spores once or twice daily. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Q2: What are the main uses of Clostridium butyricum?

A: It is mainly used as a probiotic to support gut health and manage gastrointestinal disorders, such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Q3: How does Clostridium butyricum work?

A: It produces butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that acts as the primary energy source for colonocytes and has beneficial effects on gut microbiota and immune function.

Q4: Are there any known drug interactions with Clostridium butyricum?

A: Limited information is available regarding drug interactions. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about potential interactions if other medications are being taken.

Q5: Can Clostridium butyricum be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A: The safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been definitively established. Consult with a healthcare professional before using during these periods.

Q6: What are the potential side effects of Clostridium butyricum?

A: It is generally well-tolerated. Some individuals might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating or gas. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur.

Q7: Is Clostridium butyricum available as a standalone product or only in combination with other probiotics?

A: It can be found in both standalone products and in combination with other probiotics. The specific formulation will depend on the manufacturer and intended use.

Q8: How should Clostridium butyricum be stored?

A: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for storage recommendations, which typically involve keeping the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Q9: Is Clostridium butyricum effective in preventing all types of diarrhea?

A: While it has shown efficacy in managing certain types of diarrhea, particularly antibiotic-associated diarrhea, it may not be effective for all types. The underlying cause of the diarrhea should be determined by a healthcare professional.