Usage
Lactobacillus sporogenes, also known as Bacillus coagulans, is a spore-forming probiotic bacteria. It is primarily used to treat and prevent diarrhea caused by various factors, such as infections, antibiotic use, travel, and chemotherapy. It also shows potential benefits in managing digestive disorders, vaginal infections, and lipid disorders. It is classified as a probiotic. Its mechanism of action involves restoring the balance of intestinal microflora, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, and promoting a healthy gut environment. While frequently referred to as Lactobacillus, it is now classified as Weizmannia coagulans. This spore-forming characteristic distinguishes it from Lactobacillus species. It should not be confused with Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Alternate Names
- Bacillus coagulans
- Weizmannia coagulans
- Spore-forming Lactobacillus
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Lactobacillus sporogenes exerts its effects by competing with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients and adhesion sites in the gut. It also produces lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the intestinal environment, creating an unfavorable environment for the growth of many harmful bacteria. It also enhances the host’s immune response in the gut.
Pharmacokinetics: The spores of L. sporogenes are resistant to gastric acid and bile, allowing them to survive transit through the stomach and reach the intestines where they germinate. The bacteria themselves are transient, meaning they do not permanently colonize the gut. Elimination is primarily through fecal excretion.
Mode of Action: The main mechanism of action involves modifying the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, and inhibiting the growth of pathogens. It produces lactic acid, thereby lowering the pH and creating an environment that is unfavorable to the growth of many pathogenic bacteria.
Receptor binding, Enzyme Inhibition, Neurotransmitter Modulation: Specific information regarding receptor interactions, enzyme inhibition, or neurotransmitter modulation by L. sporogenes is not readily available.
Elimination Pathways: Elimination occurs primarily through the feces.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
- General health: 1–3 capsules or 10-20 billion CFUs per day, divided into multiple doses, taken between meals.
- Concurrently with antibiotics: 1 capsule twice daily, taken 2 hours before or after the antibiotic dose, continuing for several days post-antibiotic therapy.
- Diarrhea: 1-10 billion CFUs per day, in divided doses, or 8 ounces of yogurt twice daily, at least 2 hours after antibiotic administration.
Children:
- One-quarter of the adult dose for children up to 6 years.
- One-half of the adult dose for children 6 to 12 years.
- Full adult dose for teenagers.
Special Cases: Specific dosage guidelines for the elderly and patients with hepatic or renal dysfunction aren’t universally standardized. General practice favors initiating therapy at the lower end of the dosage spectrum and adjusting as needed while closely monitoring patient response and tolerance.
Clinical Use Cases
Dosage recommendations for Lactobacillus sporogenes in specific clinical settings like intubation, surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, ICU use, and emergency situations are not clearly established.
Dosage Adjustments
Dosage adjustments may be necessary in some cases and should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual patient’s needs and condition.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Diarrhea (usually transient)
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Long-Term Effects: No significant long-term adverse effects have been reported.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR): ADRs are rare.
Contraindications
- Immunocompromised patients
- Individuals with gastrointestinal perforations
- Known hypersensitivity to L. sporogenes or its components
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics: Administer Lactobacillus sporogenes at least two hours before or after antibiotics.
- Other medications: Consult a healthcare professional regarding potential interactions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Data on the safety of Lactobacillus sporogenes during pregnancy and breastfeeding are limited. Consult with a healthcare professional before using this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Drug Profile Summary
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Mechanism of Action: Modifies gut microbiota, promotes beneficial bacteria, inhibits pathogens, and produces lactic acid.
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Side Effects: Gas, bloating, and diarrhea (typically transient)
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Contraindications: Immunocompromised patients, GI perforations, hypersensitivity.
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Drug Interactions: Antibiotics, other medications
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a physician.
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Dosage: See dosage section.
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Monitoring Parameters: Monitor for resolution of symptoms (e.g., diarrhea) and adverse effects.
Popular Combinations
While Lactobacillus sporogenes can be combined with other probiotics and prebiotics, there are no firmly established, widely recognized standard combinations specifically involving it. Any combination approach should be assessed on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare professional.
Precautions
- Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Lactobacillus sporogenes?
A: See dosage section.
Q2: Is Lactobacillus sporogenes safe for children?
A: Yes, but at a reduced dosage. See dosage section.
Q3: Can Lactobacillus sporogenes be taken with antibiotics?
A: Yes, but it should be administered at least two hours before or after the antibiotic.
Q4: What are the common side effects of Lactobacillus sporogenes?
A: Common side effects may include transient gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Q5: Can Lactobacillus sporogenes be used during pregnancy?
A: Consult with a healthcare professional before using L. sporogenes during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Q6: What is the difference between Lactobacillus sporogenes and Lactobacillus acidophilus?
A: Lactobacillus sporogenes, now reclassified as Weizmannia coagulans, forms spores, unlike Lactobacillus acidophilus. Though both produce lactic acid, they are distinct organisms.
Q7: How does Lactobacillus sporogenes work in the body?
A: It primarily works by modifying the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, and creating an environment hostile to many pathogens.
Q8: Is Lactobacillus sporogenes effective for all types of diarrhea?
A: While effective for certain types of diarrhea (antibiotic-associated, infectious, traveler’s diarrhea), its efficacy may vary depending on the underlying cause. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advised to determine if it is the appropriate treatment.
Q9: Are there any contraindications for using Lactobacillus sporogenes?
A: Yes, it is contraindicated in immunocompromised patients, those with gastrointestinal perforations, and those with hypersensitivity to it or its components.
