NOVOFIDO ORAL SUSPENSION (Each ml contains: Bifidobacterium lactis/ Lactobacillus rhamnosus/ Lactobacillus helveticus: 6x10^9 CFU)

Indications

• Prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Support for gastrointestinal health
• Enhancement of immune function
• Lactose intolerance management

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines, as doses can vary by formulation and indication.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines, as doses can vary by formulation and indication.

Mechanism of action

Bifidobacterium exerts its beneficial effects primarily through the modulation of the gut microbiota. It helps to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria by producing organic acids, such as lactic acid and acetic acid, which lower the pH of the gut environment. Additionally, Bifidobacterium enhances the intestinal barrier function, promotes the production of mucus, and stimulates the immune response by interacting with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT).

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of Bifidobacterium are characterized by its ability to restore and maintain the balance of gut microbiota, enhance intestinal barrier function, and modulate immune responses. Probiotics like Bifidobacterium can help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea and constipation, and have been associated with improvements in lactose digestion and overall gut health.

Pharmacokinetics

Bifidobacterium is not absorbed systemically; rather, it acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract. Its survival and efficacy can be influenced by factors such as the strain of bacteria, the presence of prebiotics, and the overall health of the digestive system. The bacteria can colonize the gut temporarily, providing a local effect, but regular intake is often necessary to maintain its benefits.

Adverse effects

• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Precautions

• Patients with weakened immune systems should use caution as probiotics may lead to infections.
• Those with severe allergies should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting.

Breast-feeding

Typically safe for breastfeeding mothers, but it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Some formulations may require refrigeration.

Formulations

• Capsules
• Powders
• Tablets
• Liquid suspensions

Indications

• Promoting gut health
• Alleviating symptoms of lactose intolerance
• Enhancing immune function
• Potential role in managing gastrointestinal disorders

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosing may vary based on formulation and intended use.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosing may vary based on formulation and intended use.

Mechanism of action

Lactobacillus helveticus exerts its effects primarily through the production of lactic acid and other metabolites, which create an acidic environment that can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, it may enhance gut barrier function and modulate host immune responses through the interaction with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). It can also produce bioactive peptides during protein fermentation, which may have various health-promoting effects.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of Lactobacillus helveticus involve its ability to adhere to intestinal epithelial cells, thereby promoting colonization and exerting beneficial effects on gut health. Its metabolites can influence the intestinal microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while suppressing harmful ones. The strain has also been associated with the production of compounds that may reduce inflammation and enhance the immune response.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of Lactobacillus helveticus are characterized by its ability to survive the gastrointestinal tract. Following ingestion, the bacteria can transiently colonize the gut, where they exert their beneficial effects. The survival rate and colonization potential can be influenced by factors such as the formulation, dosage, and the presence of other food components. The bacteria are eventually excreted in feces, with a significant portion surviving the passage through the digestive system.

Pregnancy

Safety during pregnancy has not been established, consult a healthcare provider.

Breast-feeding

Safety during breastfeeding has not been established, consult a healthcare provider.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Indications

• Management of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
• Support for lactose intolerance
• General gastrointestinal health
• Enhancement of immune function

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific probiotic product guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing in children.

Adults: Refer to specific probiotic product guidelines or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.

Mechanism of action

Lactobacillus works by colonizing the gut and competing with pathogenic bacteria for resources and attachment sites. They produce lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the gut, creating an unfavorable environment for harmful bacteria. Additionally, they may enhance the production of mucus and stimulate the immune response, leading to improved gut barrier function and reduced inflammation.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of Lactobacillus involves the modulation of gut microbiota composition, enhancement of intestinal barrier integrity, and stimulation of local immunity. They can produce various metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, which further contribute to gut health and metabolic processes. The interaction with host immune cells can lead to an increase in the production of immunoglobulins and cytokines, boosting the overall immune response.

Pharmacokinetics

Lactobacillus is administered orally and typically survives the gastrointestinal transit to reach the intestines, where they exert their effects. Their viability and efficacy depend on factors such as the strain used, dose, and the health status of the host. They do not undergo significant metabolism or systemic absorption, as their action is primarily local within the gut. The duration of presence in the gut can vary, and regular consumption may be necessary to maintain beneficial effects.

Pregnancy

Lactis is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Lactis is likely safe during breastfeeding, but consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Indications

• Probiotic therapy for the prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Support for gut health in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Enhancement of immune function
• Prevention of gastrointestinal infections

Dosage

Children: Refer to product-specific guidelines as dosing can vary based on the formulation and indication.

Adults: Refer to product-specific guidelines as dosing can vary based on the formulation and indication.

Mechanism of action

Lactobacillus exerts its effects primarily through the production of lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the gut environment, creating unfavorable conditions for pathogenic bacteria. They also enhance the intestinal barrier function, modulate local immune responses, and can compete with pathogens for adhesion sites on the intestinal mucosa. Furthermore, Lactobacillus may produce antimicrobial substances such as bacteriocins and hydrogen peroxide, contributing to their protective effects.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of Lactobacillus involves the interaction with gut microbiota and the modulation of immune responses. It helps in maintaining the balance of gut flora, which is essential for digestive health. Lactobacillus also stimulates the production of mucins and enhances the integrity of the intestinal barrier, thus preventing the translocation of pathogens and toxins. Additionally, it can influence systemic immune function, potentially reducing the incidence of infections.

Pharmacokinetics

Lactobacillus is typically administered orally and survives the acidic environment of the stomach to reach the intestines, where it exerts its effects. The bacteria can temporarily colonize the gut, although they do not permanently establish themselves in the intestinal microbiota. The transit time through the gastrointestinal tract can affect the efficacy of Lactobacillus, and factors such as diet and the presence of other microorganisms can influence its survival and activity.

Adverse effects

• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

Precautions

• Should be used with caution in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions.
• Consult a healthcare professional before using in children or during pregnancy.

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe, but consult a healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Lactobacillus is usually considered safe during breastfeeding, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration may be required for some formulations.

Formulations

• Capsules
• Tablets
• Powder
• Liquid

Indications

• Diarrhea, especially antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Prevention of respiratory infections
• Support for immune function
• Management of atopic dermatitis in children

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosages may vary based on formulation and indication.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosages may vary based on formulation and indication.

Mechanism of action

Lactobacillus rhamnosus exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It adheres to gut epithelial cells, forming a barrier that prevents the adhesion and invasion of pathogenic bacteria. It modulates the immune system by enhancing the production of immunoglobulins and cytokines, and it produces antimicrobial substances such as lactic acid, bacteriocins, and hydrogen peroxide, which inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms. Additionally, it helps maintain gut microbiota balance and supports the gut-brain axis.

Pharmacodynamics

Rhamnosus exhibits its pharmacodynamic effects primarily through its role in gut health. It promotes the growth of beneficial microbiota, supports mucosal barrier integrity, and modulates immune responses. The various strains of L. rhamnosus have demonstrated the ability to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea, particularly in children, and may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders.

Pharmacokinetics

As a probiotic, L. rhamnosus is not absorbed systemically and acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract. After oral administration, it can survive the acidic environment of the stomach and colonize the intestines. The viability of the bacteria is influenced by storage conditions and the matrix in which they are delivered. The effects are typically observed within a few days of administration, depending on the individual's gut microbiome and health status.

Adverse effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Bloating
• Diarrhea

Precautions

• Use with caution in immunocompromised patients
• Consider potential for infection in susceptible individuals

Pregnancy

Limited data is available on the safety of rhamnosus during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Generally considered safe; however, consult a healthcare provider before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Capsules
• Powders
• Oral suspensions