The following questions and answers will help you learn more about VSL#3® and how you should use it.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are cultures of beneficial bacteria (flora) that are normally present in a healthy digestive tract. Probiotic bacteria perform a variety of important functions in the body, including colonizing and protecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, modulating intestinal inflammation and reducing colonic permeability.
Is VSL#3® a drug?
No, it is a non-prescription natural health product.
What should VSL#3® be used for?
VSL#3® is a probiotic blend recommended to maintain an appropriate quantity and balance of “good” bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.
Do I need a prescription to buy VSL#3®?
No prescription is needed; it is classed as a natural health product.
How is VSL#3® different from other probiotic products?
VSL#3® is different from other probiotic products because it has the highest available concentration of beneficial bacteria (450 billion per dose). VSL#3® is a blend of 8 different bacteria and one of the most studied probiotics, most notably in ulcerative colitis and pouchitis.
How does VSL#3® work?
VSL#3® works in several ways. That is, it has different “mechanisms of action”. One important way VSL#3® works is through its ability to colonize the gastrointestinal (GI) tract with beneficial probiotic bacteria. These bacteria adhere to the wall of the GI tract and form a barrier and protect the inner layer of the gut from pathogenic (“bad” bacteria and other substances that can cause inflammation).
How do I take VSL#3®
VSL#3® should be mixed in cold water or in any non-carbonated drink. The unflavoured version can be mixed in milk or fruit juice.
Are there any foods I should avoid while taking VSL#3®?
VSL#3® is generally compatible with any foods you ordinarily eat.
Can I take VSL#3® in combination with other medication?
VSL#3® is believed to be compatible with most drugs. Antibiotics will reduce the effects of VSL#3®.
Can I take VSL#3® while on antibiotics?
VSL#3® is believed to be compatible with most types of drugs. If you take it with antibiotics, it will not harm you but the effect of VSL#3® will be reduced.
How much VSL#3® should I take?
The recommended daily intake for VSL#3® is 1-2 sachets or more as indicated by your physician.
Can I take too much VSL#3®?
As of today, there have been no reports of an overdose with VSL#3® or other probiotic products. Available experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that VSL#3® is safe and no significant adverse or toxic effects related to its use. This is not surprising, as the strains of lactic acid bacteria in VSL#3® are a normal part of the natural microflora of the human gut. Only a minority of patients consuming VSL#3® have complained of flatulence (gas) or bloating during the treatment.
How long does VSL#3® take to work?
In general, VSL#3® takes up to 1 week to become established in the gut. A study conducted with VSL#3® confirms that maximum bacterial colonization of the gut occurs within 20 days. This high level of colonization remains stable throughout treatment. After daily intake is interrupted, the strains in VSL#3® will survive in the gut for up to 3 weeks.
How long can I take VSL#3®?
VSL#3® can be taken every day for as long as you may wish to continue.
Is VSL#3® safe for children?
Probiotics are generally regarded as safe for use in children. Studies involving the use of VSL#3® in children are limited; however, no adverse events were reported.
Is VSL#3® safe in pregnancy?
Probiotics in general have a good safety record when used in pregnancy. Currently there is no data from clinical studies involving VSL#3® in pregnant women. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult your doctor or healthcare professional.
Can I take VSL#3® if I have an intolerance to dairy products?
Some dairy ingredients are used in the culture medium but are removed during fermentation and concentration. There might be trace amounts and, for this reason, VSL#3® is not defined as a dairy-free product but as a non-dairy product. If you are lactose intolerant, you may wish to start with a very low intake of VSL#3® to see how you will respond before increasing the amount.
What if I experience bloating symptoms?
Bloating can occur during the first few days after starting to use VSL#3®. This is usually a temporary occurrence due to the changing intestinal microflora.
What is the best time to take VSL#3®?
VSL#3® can be taken at any time during the day. It is generally recommended that it be taken either once or twice daily at approximately the same time(s) each day.
How long can I keep VSL#3®?
The shelf life of the product is 2 years from the date of manufacture if refrigerated. Check the expiry date on the box.
What happens if VSL#3® is left at room temperature?
VSL#3® will be fine for 7 days as long as it is not heated above room temperature (25°C) or exposed to excessive heat. If it is left at room temperature for long periods of time or exposed to excessive heat, the microorganisms in VSL#3® can become greatly reduced.
Can product be used if frozen?
Product is stable if frozen. Return product to recommended storage temperature before taking VSL#3®.
Is VSL#3® Kosher and Halal certified?
Yes, VSL#3® is both Kosher and Halal certified.
How does Ferring ensure the bacteria in VSL#3® will remain alive when it is shipped to pharmacies or directly to customers at temperature above normal storage conditions?
Ferring ships VSL#3® using ice packs and insulated shippers.
If you have additional questions on VSL#3 please call Ferrring Pharmaceuticals at 1-800-263-4057 during business hours (Mon-Fri 8:00 am to 5 pm EST) or send us an email at VSL3@ferring.com. |
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