Probiotic bacteria (mixed strains)

Probiotic
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Probiotic bacteria is a probiotic found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Bifilac. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: clostridium butyricum, streptococcus faecalis, bacillus mesentericus

What it is used for

Helps restore gut bacteria during diarrhoea or after antibiotics.

How it works

A blend of live bacteria (lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and others) to support gut health, for example during antibiotics or for some IBS.

How to take it

Take daily as directed; separate from antibiotics by 2 to 3 hours.

Common side effects

  • Wind
  • Bloating

Get medical help straight away if

Fever or feeling very unwell in people with weak immunity or a central line

Be careful

Avoid in people with very weak immunity unless a doctor advises.

Other medicines and interactions

Antibiotics reduce their effect.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Probiotic bacteria (1)

Common questions

What is Probiotic bacteria used for?

Helps restore gut bacteria during diarrhoea or after antibiotics.

How does Probiotic bacteria work?

A blend of live bacteria (lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and others) to support gut health, for example during antibiotics or for some IBS.

How should I take Probiotic bacteria?

Take daily as directed; separate from antibiotics by 2 to 3 hours.

What are the side effects of Probiotic bacteria?

Common: Wind, bloating. Get help straight away for: Fever or feeling very unwell in people with weak immunity or a central line.

Does Probiotic bacteria interact with other medicines?

Antibiotics reduce their effect.

Is Probiotic bacteria safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Probiotic bacteria need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Probiotic bacteria?

Bifilac.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.