Bacillus coagulans and inulin and Procrit

• Generic Name: bacillus coagulans / inulin
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Baciguent, Probiotic Formula, Proferrin-ES

Bacillus coagulans has been used as a probiotic, or "friendly bacteria," to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach and intestines. Inulin is fiber that is made from chicory roots. Inulin works in the intestines to help grow probiotic bacteria.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin is a combination product that has been used in alternative medicine as an aid in treating stomach conditions such as gas pain, constipation, or diarrhea (including viral diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, or diarrhea caused by taking antibiotic medicine). Bacillus coagulans and inulin has also been used to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or stomach ulcer associated with H. pylori (Helicobacter) infection.

It is not certain whether bacillus coagulans and inulin is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Bacillus coagulans and inulin should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Bacillus coagulans and inulin may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

• Generic Name: epoetin alfa
• Dosage Forms: injection, solution
• Other Brand Names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit

Procrit (epoetin alfa) is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications. When fewer red blood cells are produced, you can develop a condition called anemia.

Procrit is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy or chronic kidney disease, or anemia caused by taking zidovudine to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

Procrit is also used to reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in people having certain types of surgery.