Enterococcus faecalis

Basics

Enterococcus faecalis is a bacterium that is used to treat intestinal complaints. It is a gram-positive, facultatively anaerobic chain coccus bacterium and belongs to the enterococci. The natural habitat of these bacteria is the human intestinal flora. However, if they are found outside the intestine, they can cause illness. They are often used in probiotics, which are intended to contribute to intestinal health. The effect of probiotics is highly controversial among medical experts.

Enterococcus faecalis Enterococcus faecalis (Peddalanka Ramesh Babu/iStock)

Effect

The effect of Enterococcus faecalis is based on growth and multiplication in the intestine, which displaces other pathogens. They also stimulate the immune system and are resistant to stomach acid and bile acid. The bacteria are often used to treat diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence and to strengthen the immune system. Probiotics also include other bacterial strains such as lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, Escherichia coli and some fungal yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii.

Dosage

Always take Enterococcus faecalis exactly as described in the package leaflet or as advised by your doctor.

Adults:

The usual recommended dose is 3 capsules per day. One capsule corresponds to the number of 75 million living bacteria.

Children & adolescents:

The usual recommended dose is 2 capsules per day. One capsule corresponds to 75 million live bacteria.

The capsules should be taken with some liquid, but not with hot drinks, otherwise the bacteria will die.

Side effects

No known side effects.

Interactions

Interactions may occur if the following medicines are taken at the same time:

  • Antibiotics can weaken the effect of Enterococcus faecalis because antibiotics kill bacteria

Contraindications

Enterococcus faecalis must NOT be taken in the following cases:

  • in case of allergy or hypersensitivity to Enterococcus faecalis
  • in case of immunosuppression
  • in the case of autoimmune diseases and serious gastrointestinal diseases, Enterococcus faecalis should only be taken if your doctor considers it absolutely necessary

Age restriction

Use under 2 years of age is NOT recommended due to lack of data.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding

Enterococcus faecalis can be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding if strictly indicated.

Thomas Hofko

Thomas Hofko



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The presented content does not replace the original package insert of the medication, especially regarding the dosage and effects of individual products. We cannot assume liability for the accuracy of the data, as the data has been partially converted automatically. Always consult a doctor for diagnoses and other health-related questions.

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