Lactobacillus crispatus: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Lactobacillus crispatus (L. crispatus) is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) found naturally in the human body. It's also found in fermented foods.

"Good" bacteria such as L. crispatus might help the body break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases. These bacteria are sometimes added to fermented foods like yogurt and also found in dietary supplements.

People use L. crispatus for overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina (bacterial vaginosis), infertility, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Don't confuse L. crispatus with other probiotics, or with fermented food products such as fermented milk, kefir, or yogurt. These are not the same. Also note that the Lactobacillus genus was split up into 25 different genera in April 2020. Many species were reclassified at this time, but L. crispatus remains in the Lactobacillus genus. Its name did not change.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

Overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. L. crispatus suppositories and vaginal capsules might help prevent this condition in people with recurring symptoms. But it's not clear if taking L. crispatus by mouth helps.

There is interest in using L. crispatus for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: L. crispatus is possibly safe for most people. L. crispatus has been used safely in doses of up to 20 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) daily for up to 12 months. It seems to be well-tolerated.

When applied to the vagina: L. crispatus is possibly safe. It's been used safely in doses of up to 2 billion CFUs daily for 5 days or twice weekly for 10 weeks.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if L. crispatus is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. But there are no reasons to expect safety concerns when used appropriately.

Children: There isn't enough reliable information to know if L. crispatus is safe for children, including very small premature infants.

Weakened immune system: Probiotics have caused blood infections in a small number of people with weakened immune systems. If you have a weakened immune system, talk with your healthcare provider before taking probiotics, including L. crispatus.

Damaged heart valves: Probiotic preparations can cause an infection in the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valve. This is extremely rare, but people with damaged heart valves should stop taking probiotics, including L. crispatus, before dental procedures or surgical procedures.

Interactions

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

Antibiotic drugs interacts with Lactobacillus crispatus
L. crispatus is a type of friendly bacteria. Antibiotics are used to reduce harmful bacteria in the body. Taking antibiotics along with L. crispatus can reduce the effects of L. crispatus. To avoid this interaction, take L. crispatus products at least 2 hours before or after antibiotics.

Dosing

In adults, L. crispatus has been taken by mouth and also applied to the vagina in a capsule or suppository in varying doses. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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Lactobacillus crispatus - Uses, Side Effects, and More