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Dietary supplement

Acidophilus Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Esmond Natural

Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Acidophilus Complex is a dietary supplement by Esmond Natural with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for digestive health and balance, diarrhea (including antibiotic-related), vaginal yeast and bacterial infections.Based on those ingredients, 182 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Lactobacillus acidophilus, B. bifidum. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 0 of its 2 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Acidophilus Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (13.60 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

This supplement contains two active probiotic ingredients: Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, which are beneficial bacteria that help support gut health. The product also includes a proprietary acidophilus blend; the inactive ingredients are gelatin and minor additional components that make up the capsule.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: support gastro-intestinal health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Bacterial vaginosis, Clostridioides difficile infection, Colic, Constipation, Helicobacter pylori — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lactobacillus Acidophilus is rated "Possibly Effective" for Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Lactobacillus Acidophilus is rated "Possibly Effective" for Bacterial vaginosis, Helicobacter pylori, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  • Also on file: Bifidobacterium Bifidum is rated "Possibly Effective" for Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The research on these probiotics shows mixed but promising results for specific uses. Both L. acidophilus and B. bifidum are possibly effective for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and for diarrhea that comes on after taking antibiotics.

L. acidophilus is also possibly effective for Helicobacter pylori infection and bacterial vaginosis. For other conditions like respiratory infections (B. bifidum) and atopic disease (L. acidophilus), the evidence is either insufficient or points toward ineffectiveness.

The bottom line: these strains have some solid evidence for gut-related issues, but not across the board.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Lactobacillus Acidophilus Bifidobacterium Bifidum

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 2 of the 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Both organisms are generally well tolerated in healthy adults and children. That said, people with weakened immune systems should be cautious and talk with their doctor first.

The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal ones — bloating, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea — though they're uncommon. In rare cases, live probiotic organisms can cause serious infections in critically ill patients, but this risk is very low in otherwise healthy people.

A few cases of rash and itching have been reported in clinical trials, though it's unclear whether the probiotics themselves were responsible. Since safety data are limited, check with your healthcare provider before starting.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Lactobacillus Acidophilus Bifidobacterium Bifidum

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 2 of the 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bifidobacterium Bifidum.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • For scale: 182 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

You'll want to double-check antibiotics before taking this product. Antibiotics can kill the live organisms in this supplement and reduce its effectiveness, so spacing out your doses is important.

Ask your pharmacist for the right timing.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

If you're dealing with IBS, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, or related gut issues, this product may be worth a try — the evidence is encouraging. If you're taking antibiotics right now, hold off and ask your pharmacist when to start.

Anyone with a weakened immune system or serious illness should talk with their doctor first.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 23, 2020.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Acidophilus Complex, straight from the product label.

Brand Esmond Natural
Barcode (UPC) 0641399088691
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 23, 2020
DSLD ID 230696
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
UPC/BARCODE
0641399088691
IngredientAmount% DV
Lactobacillus acidophilus0 NP--
Proprietary Acidophilus Blend13.6 mg--
B. bifidum0 NP--

Other ingredients: Gelatin, Contains <2% of

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

May support gastro-intestinal health.

Maintain health Regulate physical function

Precautions

Warning: If you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications consult your doctor before use.

Discontinue use and consult your doctor if any adverse reactions occur.

Keep out of reach of children.

Tamper resistant: Do not use if imprinted seal under cap is broken or missing.

As a reminder, discuss the supplements and medications you take with your health care providers.

Storage

Store in a dry place and avoid excessive heat.

Seals/Symbols

GMP Good Manufacturing Practice

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: For adults, take one (1) capsule daily, preferably with meals. As a reminder, discuss the supplements and medications you take with your health care providers.

General Statements

Herbal health since 1994

See for yourself

Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Proprietary Acidophilus Blend

13.6 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Contains <2% of. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Acidophilus Complex?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
182Drugs
182 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Acidophilus Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Lactobacillus acidophilus1 drug type · 182 drugs

Antibiotic Drugs

Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L. acidophilus.
L. acidophilus preparations usually contain live and active organisms. Therefore, simultaneously taking antibiotics might kill a significant number of the organisms. Tell patients to separate administration of antibiotics and L. acidophilus preparations by at least two hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D

B. bifidum1 drug type · 182 drugs

Antibiotic Drugs

Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium. bifidum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B. bifidum.
Since B. bifidum preparations usually contain live and active organisms, simultaneously taking antibiotics might kill a significant number of the organisms. Tell patients to separate administration of antibiotics and B. bifidum preparations by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Acidophilus Complex, from the product label.

Esmond Natural

See all Esmond Natural products
Name
Esmond Natural Inc.
City
Irwindale
State
CA
ZipCode
91706
Web Address
www.esmondnatural.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural: Common Questions

Does Acidophilus Complex by Esmond Natural interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Acidophilus Complex has a known interaction with 182 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Acidophilus Complex contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this while I'm on antibiotics?
Not at the same time. Antibiotics kill the live bacteria in this supplement and make it less effective. Talk with your pharmacist about how many hours to wait between doses — timing matters here.
Does it help with IBS?
Both ingredients in this product are possibly effective for irritable bowel syndrome, based on the research we have. Results vary from person to person, so it may be worth trying if you're interested, but talk with your doctor if symptoms don't improve.
Is it safe if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Both ingredients are possibly safe during pregnancy, but data are limited. For breastfeeding, we don't have enough safety information on file. Either way, check with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What side effects might I get?
Most people tolerate it well. Mild gas, bloating, or loose stools can happen but are uncommon. A small number of people reported rash or itching in trials, though it's unclear if the probiotics caused it.
Is it okay for people with weakened immunity?
People with weak immune systems should be cautious and talk with their doctor first. In very rare cases, live probiotics can cause serious infections in critically ill patients, but the risk is low in otherwise healthy people.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Acidophilus Complex is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Acidophilus Complex label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Acidophilus Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 22 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus 15 references
  1. Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
  2. Begtrup LM, de Muckadell OB, Kjeldsen J, Christensen RD, Jarbøl DE. Long-term treatment with probiotics in primary care patients with irritable bowel syndrome--a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. Scand J Gastroenterol 2013;48(10):1127-35 PubMed
  3. Chatterjee S, Kar P, Das T, Ray S, Gangulyt S, Rajendiran C, Mitra M. Randomised placebo-controlled double blind multicentric trial on efficacy and safety of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Bifidobacterium BB-12 for prevention of antibiotic-associated
  4. Shavakhi A, Tabesh E, Yaghoutkar A, Hashemi H, Tabesh F, Khodadoostan M,Minakari M, Shavakhi S, Gholamrezaei A. The effects of multistrain probiotic compound on bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection: a randomized placebo-c
  5. Karamali M, Dadkhah F, Sadrkhanlou M, et al. Effects of probiotic supplementation on glycaemic control and lipid profiles in gestational diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Metab 2016;42(4):234-41. PubMed
  6. Badehnoosh B, Karamali M, Zarrati M, et al. The effects of probiotic supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 May;31(9):1128-1136.
  7. Kumar S, Kumar R, Rohilla L, Jacob N, Yadav J, Sachdeva N. A high potency multi-strain probiotic improves glycemic control in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled pilot study. Pediatr Diabete
  8. Shahriari A, Karimi E, Shahriari M, Aslani N, Khooshideh M, Arab A. The effect of probiotic supplementation on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus among high-risk pregnant women: A parallel double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial PubMed
  9. Xiao SD, Zhang DZ, Lu H, et al. Multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus LB in patients with chronic diarrhea. Adv Ther. 2003;20(5):253-60.
  10. Rossi F, Amadoro C, Gasperi M, Colavita G. Lactobacilli infection case reports in the last three years and safety implications. Nutrients. 2022;14(6):1178. PubMed
  11. Ozer M, Goksu SY, Shahverdiani A, Mustafa M. Lactobacillus acidophilus-induced endocarditis and associated splenic abscess. Case Rep Infect Dis 2020;2020:1382709.
  12. Sadrin S, Sennoune S, Gout B, et al. A 2-strain mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. Dig Liver Dis 2020;52(5):534-540. PubMed
  13. Stoffer JN, Slingsby TJ, Giuliari GP. Lactobacillus acidophilus endophthalmitis after intravitreal bevacizumab injection requiring intraocular lens explantation. Can J Ophthalmol 2022;57(1):e21-e22. PubMed
  14. Cukovic-Cavka S, Likic R, Francetic I, Rustemovic N, Opacic M, Vucelic B. Lactobacillus acidophilus as a cause of liver abscess in a NOD2/CARD15-positive patient with Crohn's disease. Digestion 2006;73(2-3):107-10.
  15. Hui J, Ren Y, Wang Y, Han Q. Lactobacillus acidophilus endophthalmitis postcataract operation: A case report with a literature review. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023.

See these in context on the Lactobacillus Acidophilus monograph →

Bifidobacterium Bifidum 7 references
  1. Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
  2. Xiao JZ, Takahashi S, Odamaki T, et al. Antibiotic susceptibility of bifidobacterial strains distributed in the Japanese market. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2010;74(2):336-42. PubMed
  3. Rerksuppaphol S, Rerksuppaphol L. Randomized controlled trial of probiotics to reduce common cold in schoolchildren. Pediatr Int. 2012;54(5):682-7. PubMed
  4. Karamali M, Dadkhah F, Sadrkhanlou M, et al. Effects of probiotic supplementation on glycaemic control and lipid profiles in gestational diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Metab 2016;42(4):234-41. PubMed
  5. Badehnoosh B, Karamali M, Zarrati M, et al. The effects of probiotic supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 May;31(9):1128-1136.
  6. Pruccoli G, Silvestro E, Pace Napoleone C, Aidala E, Garazzino S, Scolfaro C. Are probiotics safe? Bifidobacterium bacteremia in a child with severe heart failure. Infez Med. 2019;27(2):175-178.
  7. Esaiassen E, Hjerde E, Cavanagh JP, Simonsen GS, Klingenberg C; Norwegian Study Group on Invasive Bifidobacterial Infections. Bifidobacterium bacteremia: Clinical characteristics and a genomic approach to assess pathogenicity. J Clin Microbiol. 2017;55(7) PubMed

See these in context on the Bifidobacterium Bifidum monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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