Zelac

Generic name: bifidobacterium and lactobacillus [ BIF-eye-doe-bak-TEER-ee-um-and-LAK-toe-ba-SIL-us ]
Brand names: Controlled Delivery Probiotic, Florajen3, Nature''s Bounty Probiotic, Phillips Colon Health, Primadophilus Bifidus, ... show all 9 brands Probiotic Formula, Prodigen, Provella, Zelac
Drug class: Probiotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 14, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Zelac?

Zelac is a medical food used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria" to maintain a healthy digestive tract (stomach and intestines). It may also help maintain healthy bacteria in the vagina.

Zelac is used in people with irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, or an ileal pouch. This medicine is also used in women to support vaginal health.

Not all uses for Zelac have been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Zelac may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Warnings

Do not use this product without medical advice. Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Before using Zelac, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this medicine if you have certain medical conditions.

Zelac is available in capsule, tablet, powder, and chewable tablet formulations. Do not use different formulations at the same time without medical advice.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• milk allergy or lactose intolerance; or

• if you are taking an antibiotic medication.

Ask a doctor before using Zelac if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take Zelac?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Check your product label to see whether you should take this product with or without food.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Mix the oral powder with a cold non-carbonated drink or soft food (applesauce, yogurt, ice cream) and eat this mixture right away. Do not save for later use.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Zelac.

Store your medication as directed away from moisture, heat, and light. You may need to store the medicine in a refrigerator. Heat or humidity may affect the live bacteria in this product, making it less effective.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Zelac?

Do not mix the oral powder with hot liquids or foods.

Zelac side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of Zelac may include:

• stomach bloating or discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Zelac?

Other drugs may affect Zelac, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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