Saccharomyces boulardii
Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast, a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae first isolated from tropical fruit.
When live yeast is unsuitable
German safety guidance contraindicates these products in critically ill or immunosuppressed people and those with a central venous catheter. Rare bloodstream yeast infections, including fatal cases in critically ill patients, have been reported. Handling opened products can also contaminate hands or air around vulnerable patients. 1
Side effects and medicines
The German leaflet lists gas and allergic reactions. Antifungal medicines acting in the gut can reduce the treatment’s effect. It advises against use during pregnancy or breastfeeding because relevant evidence is missing, and excludes self-treatment in children under two. 2
For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.