Bacillus coagulans is a type of bacteria. It is used similarly to lactobacillus and other probiotics as "beneficial" bacteria.

Application

People take Bacillus coagulans for diarrhea, including infectious types such as rotaviral diarrhea in children; traveler's diarrhea; and diarrhea caused by antibiotics. Bacillus coagulans is also used for general digestion problems, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), a bowel disorder called Clostridium difficile colitis, excessive growth of "bad" bacteria in the intestine, and infection due to the ulcer-causing bacterium Helicobacter pylori.

Some people use Bacillus coagulans to prevent respiratory infections and ramp up the immune system. It is also used to prevent cancer or the formation of cancer-causing agents. There is also some interest in using it as an additive to vaccines to improve their effectiveness.

Features

Bacillus coagulans produces lactic acid and, as a result, is often misclassified as lactic acid bacteria such as lactobacillus. In fact, some commercial products containing Bacillus coagulans are marketed as Lactobacillus sporogenes or "spore-forming lactic acid bacterium."
Unlike lactic acid bacteria such as lactobacillus or bifidobacteria, Bacillus coagulans forms reproductive structures called spores. Spores are actually an important factor in telling Bacillus coagulans apart from lactic acid bacteria.

How does it work?

There is not enough information to know how Bacillus coagulans might work for medical purposes. Some research in animals (but not yet in humans) shows that Bacillus coagulans might increase immune system function and decrease harmful bacteria.

Are there safety concerns?

Bacillus coagulans is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth. Some research in people has shown that Bacillus coagulans can be safely used by adults for up to 6 months.

Special precautions & warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Pregnant or breast-feeding women should stay on the safe side and avoid using Bacillus coagulans.

Are there interactions with medications?

Antibiotic drugs

Antibiotics are used to reduce harmful bacteria in the body. Antibiotics can also reduce other bacteria in the body. Taking antibiotics along with Bacillus coagulans might reduce the potential benefits of Bacillus coagulans. To avoid this potential interaction, take Bacillus coagulans products at least 2 hours before or after antibiotics.

Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants)
Bacillus coagulans might increase the activity of the immune system. Taking Bacillus coagulans along with medications that decrease the immune system's activity might decrease the effectiveness of these medications.

What dose is used?

The appropriate dose of Bacillus coagulans depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Bacillus coagulans. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.