• Probiotics are generally regarded as safe for human consumption. Few side effects have been reported.
• Some people experience excessive production of gas due to the corrective activity of probiotics in the colon. This is patient-specific and normally will decrease with use. Gradual increase of dosing over time is recommended to minimize this effect.
• Use cautiously in patients prone to infections or those with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or in infants born prematurely or those with immune deficiency.
• Use cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal disorders or in those sensitive or intolerant to dairy products containing probiotics. Lactose-sensitive people may develop abdominal discomfort from dairy products containing probiotics.
• Use cautiously in patients with pancreatitis. Some research has found that probiotics may increase risk of mortality in these patients.
• Avoid with known allergy or sensitivity to probiotics.