OTC product: Florastor Kids

Abstract

Category: Probiotic/nutraceutical derived from the yeast cells of Saccharomyces boulardii. Manufacturer: Biocodex, Inc. Use: To promote and maintain intestinal health and to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in children. Availability: Powder packets containing S. boulardii 250 mg; 10 packets per box. Discussion: AAD can be defi ned as an otherwise inexplicable diarrhea usually occurring with antibiotic treatment.1 AAD may occur within the fi rst day or up to several weeks after treatment with an antibiotic.2,3 Reports indicate that AAD may occur in up to 25% of all patients receiving antibiotic treatment and in as many as 30% of children.2,3 Diarrhea most commonly occurs during broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy (e.g., aminopenicillins, cephalosporins, clindamycin).1 Diarrhea severity can vary from mild (e.g., loose watery stools with no other complications) to severe (e.g., complications including electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, pseudomembranous colitis).1 Often, AAD is managed via early termination of the antibiotic treatment, leading to suboptimal therapy.2 Probiotics are living organisms that purportedly promote intestinal health and maintain bowel function. They are nonpathogenic bacterial or yeast microbiota. S. boulardii is unique among probiotics because it is derived from yeast.2,3 Its proposed mechanism of action involves increasing the chloride absorption within the jejunum and the descending colon; it is also thought to affect nitric oxide responsible for intestinal water and electrolyte transport.2 However, this supposed mechanism has never been substantiated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the safety and effi cacy of the product remain unknown. Probiotics (including this product) cannot legally claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Patient information5 Take one packet twice a day. ■ The contents of the packet may ■ be sprinkled on apple sauce, sour cream, or yogurt. The contents of the packet may be ■ mixed with water, orange juice, apple juice, or formula. The product may be used in children ■ with lactose intolerance because it only contains a small amount of lactose. Must be stored at room temperature; ■ no refrigeration is required. Should not be taken if recipient has ■ any allergies to yeast or is currently taking any antifungal products. This product is not proven to diag ■ nose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition.