Lactobacillus Reuteri: Indications, Mechanism of Action, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings, Contraindications and Interactions

This probiotic has been shown to maintain and restore the natural flora in the large and small intestine.

Lactobacillus reuteri is a heterofermentary probiotic , which has been shown to have clinical efficacy and safety in reducing the incidence and severity of diarrhea and functional disorders in children.

Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic widely used in bacterial therapy for children.

Probiotics contain microorganisms, usually bacteria, that have health benefits, and can be used to inhibit the presence of other harmful microorganisms.

Active ingredient

Lactobacillus reuteri is a dietary and antidiarrheal supplement, in capsule containing 10 billion living cells.

Presentation

Lactobacillus reuteri is presented for commercialization in vegetable capsules, covered with hypromellose, gelatin gum.

It does not contain salt, sugar, gluten, starch, yeast, preservatives or artificial colors.

Indications

  • Suitable for fighting diarrhea , especially in children.
  • Effective in infant colic.
  • Relief of abdominal pain.
  • Treatment to lower cholesterol levels.

Mechanism of action of Lactobacillus reuteri

Lactobacillus reuteri strains are probiotics present in the intestinal flora.

The investigations that have been carried out in lactobacilli, have been directed to the maintenance of the normal intestinal flora and the ability to replace bacteria.

The general mechanism of action of probiotics is to inhibit adhesion to the intestinal epithelium by pathogenic bacteria.

Lactobacillus reuteri modifies the composition of the intestinal flora and acts against various enteropathogenic agents present in the body.

Lactobacillus reuteri produces the enzyme called bile salt hydrolase, which is critical in managing lipids by reducing their absorption.

This reduces the intestinal absorption of dietary cholesterol which is then excreted in the stool.

Like all fats, cholesterol requires conjugated bile acids to be absorbed.

Taking Lactobacillus reuteri increases the excretion of cholesterol in the stool by breaking the chemical bonds of the conjugated bile acids.

A second mechanism, and the subject of new research, could also help lower both cholesterol and cardiovascular disease risk.

In addition to being reservoirs for excess cholesterol, bile acids are also powerful signaling molecules that regulate cholesterol metabolism through the action of the X-farnesoid receptor.

When conjugated bile acids are broken down, in the presence of L. reuteri, signaling is modulated, accelerating the breakdown and subsequent excretion of cholesterol and, furthermore, limiting the reabsorption of cholesterol in the intestine.

Dose

It is recommended to take one capsule a day in the morning.

Side effects of Lactobacillus reuteri

An increase in stomach gas may occur or abdominal bloating may occur. If this effect persists or worsens, the doctor should be notified immediately.

Other unlikely but serious side effects are: signs of infection such as high fever, chills, persistent cough.

Symptoms of a very serious allergic reaction are itching , hives , swelling of the face, tongue, throat, severe dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Warnings and Contraindications

You should not take Lactobacillus reuteri, if you are allergic to lactobacilli or any of the ingredients that this medicine contains.

In cases of weakened immune systems such as HIV / AIDS or people who have been prescribed medications to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, there is some concern that the lactobacilli in supplements containing live bacteria may grow too large.

Patients with short bowel syndrome are more likely to develop Lactobacilli infections.

Clinical cases of patients with ulcerative colitis who require hospitalization due to the severity of their condition are more prone to developing lactobacilli infections.

In cases of damaged heart valves, Lactobacilli in general can cause an infection in the inner lining of the heart chambers and the heart valve, but this is extremely rare.

Patients with impaired heart valves should stop using probiotics before having any dental procedure or invasive technique on the stomach or intestines, such as endoscopy.

Lactobacillus reuteri interactions

There are no special precautions in cases of porphyria , pregnancy and lactation, since the use of Lactobacillus reuteri is presumed safe.

This medicine has been found safe for use in babies and children at the dose recommended by the doctor.

In geriatric patients, no special precautions are necessary.

With the use of alcohol and other medications together with Lactobacillus reuteri, no interaction has been reported.