Saccharomyces Boulardii

Saccharomyces Boulardii is a non pathogenic yeast used for the prevention and treatment of diarrhoea of various causes. It has been isolated as part of the normal flora. It reduces some of the enterotoxic effects of toxin A by inhibiting toxin A-receptor binding. This effect appears to be manifested by a secreted product of yeast, possibly a protease.

Indications

Antibiotic associated diarrhoea, diarrhoea induced by clostridium difficile, diarrhoea due to tube feeding, travellers diarrhoea, chronic diarrhoea in HIV patients, irritable bowel syndrome.

Dosage

200mg to 300mg per day depending on the kind of diarrhoea disease and on hospital or ambulatory use. In special case like diarrhoea associated with antibiotics: 1-2 gm per day. In HIV related diarrhoea, start with 3gm a day then work down to 1 gm is divided doses.

Contra-Indications

Yeast allergy, patients with central venous catheter.

Side Effects

Occassional flatulence, seldom allergic reaction, Isolated cases of fungaemia in patients with central venous catheter.