Acidophilus is used to increase the normal fl ora in the gastrointestinal tract in uncomplicated diarrhea, antibiotic-induced diarrhea, Clostridium diffi cile diarrhea, to treat or prevent vaginal candida infections with or without antibiotics, and to treat bacterial and other candida and urinary tract infections. Lactobacillus acidophilus may decrease Campylobacter pylori, and some Lactobacillus spp. may decrease lipoprotein concentrations. Yogurt is used topically to treat thrush in the infant. Acidophilus may be effective for atopic dermatitis (eczema), atopic disease, Helicobacter pylori infections, irritable bowel syndrome, and respiratory infections (Jellin et al, 2008). Acidophilus is used for the treatment of diarrhea in children. In adults it is used for hepatic encephalopathy, high cholesterol, and necrotizing enterocolitis prevention, although research has been inconclusive.
