Saccharomyces boulardii is approved for medical use as probiotics.

Saccharomyces boulardii, a probiotic yeast, is used to promote gastrointestinal health. Its primary uses include the prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, management of traveler's diarrhea, support for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), complementary therapy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, management of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), treatment of gastroenteritis, and potential use in Helicobacter pylori treatment. Additionally, it is sometimes taken to maintain overall gut health, prevent Candida overgrowth, and alleviate symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Saccharomyces boulardii is typically administered orally, and it comes in various forms for ingestion, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquid suspensions. The most common route of administration is through the mouth, allowing the probiotic yeast to reach the gastrointestinal tract, which can benefit gut health.

Saccharomyces boulardii is generally well-tolerated, and side effects are typically mild and infrequent. Common side effects may include gas, bloating, constipation, and nausea.  Serious side effects are rare but can occur, particularly in individuals with severely compromised immune systems, such as those with advanced HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments.

In individuals with severely compromised immune systems, such as those with advanced HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments (e.g., after organ transplantation), there is a rare risk of systemic infections from Saccharomyces boulardii. Systemic infections can be severe and even life-threatening. Saccharomyces boulardii has been associated with cases of fungemia, where the yeast enters the bloodstream. Fungemia is rare but is more likely in immunocompromised individuals or those with central venous catheters.

Individuals with severely compromised immune systems, such as those with advanced HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive treatments, should use Saccharomyces boulardii cautiously or avoid it altogether.   If you have a central venous catheter, consult your healthcare provider before using this probiotic.  Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to yeast should avoid Saccharomyces boulardii, as it is a yeast-based probiotic that could trigger allergic reactions.

Use caution or avoid Saccharomyces boulardii if severely immunocompromised, as there is a rare risk of systemic infections. Consult a healthcare provider if you have a central venous catheter, as there have been rare cases of fungemia. Avoid if you have yeast allergies or sensitivities, as it is yeast-based. Exercise caution in high-risk populations, including those with recurrent fungal infections, severe underlying medical conditions, and critically ill patients. Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss with a healthcare provider if taking antifungal drugs concurrently. Use with caution in infants and very young children; consult a pediatrician. Use caution under healthcare provider guidance if you have severe liver or kidney disease.

1. La Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd., [Accessed on 16th Sept 2023], https://www.larenon.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Symbulardi-lbl_Final_new.pdf
2. I.D. Penman, C.W. Lees, Alimentary tract and pancreatic disease, Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 837-920.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.