Probiotics

Probiotics chosen for evidence, not marketing: Alflorex for IBS, OptiBac for antibiotics, women’s health and babies, Bio-Kult and FabU for everyday gut health. Our pharmacists explain which strain suits which problem.

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Which probiotic for which problem

A probiotic is only as good as the strain inside it and the research behind that strain. Here is how we match them.

ProblemOur pickWhy
IBS: bloating, pain, unpredictable bowelsAlflorexBifidobacterium 35624, developed in Cork, with clinical trials in IBS. Give it four weeks.
Taking antibioticsOptiBac For Those On AntibioticsStrains shown to reduce antibiotic-related diarrhoea; can be taken at the same time as the antibiotic.
Recurrent thrush or BVOptiBac For Women / Intimate FloraLactobacillus strains that reach the vaginal flora.
Everyday gut healthOptiBac Every Day, Bio-Kult Everyday, FabU Gut CultureMulti-strain, well tolerated, good value for daily use.
Babies and childrenOptiBac Babies & Children, BioGaia dropsAge-appropriate strains and doses; BioGaia has evidence for colic.
PregnancyOptiBac For PregnancyDesigned and tested for use in pregnancy.
Cystitis-proneBio-Kult Pro-CyanCombines cranberry extract with probiotic strains.

How to take them

Same time each day, with or just before food. Most need four weeks to judge. Refrigeration is not required for the brands we stock. If one does not help after a month, change strain rather than giving up on probiotics altogether.

Pharmacist tip: IBS that is new after age 50, or that comes with weight loss, bleeding or night symptoms, needs a GP before any supplement.

Common questions about probiotics

What is the best probiotic for IBS?

Alflorex. Its strain, Bifidobacterium longum 35624, was developed in Ireland and has clinical trials showing reduced bloating, pain and bowel symptoms in IBS. Take one a day for at least four weeks.

Should I take a probiotic with antibiotics?

Yes, it reduces the chance of antibiotic-related diarrhoea. OptiBac For Those On Antibiotics can be taken alongside the antibiotic and for a week afterwards.

Do probiotics need to be kept in the fridge?

Not the brands we stock, which are formulated to be shelf stable. Keep them cool and dry and use before the expiry date.

Can children take probiotics?

Yes. OptiBac Babies & Children sachets suit infants and children, and BioGaia drops are used from birth for colic. Chewy Vites and OptiBac gummies suit older children.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.