Several probiotic bacteria previously known as Lactobacillus have been renamed. Lactobacillus reuteri is now known as Limosilactobacillus reuteri, abbreviated L. reuteri. However, it’s essential to note that it is only the genus part, Lactobacillus, that has changed; species and strain names remain the same, and of course, the organisms themselves, including their effects and safety.

BioGaia probiotics very rarely cause side effects in the amounts recommended for the products. Since every gastrointestinal tract is unique some individuals might experience a temporary change in gut motility or excessive gas, when starting on a true probiotic, but that generally disappears after a few days. No serious adverse effects have been observed in clinical trials up to the maximum tested dosage of 10 billion CFU per day.

L. reuteri Osfortis is a capsule containing 5 billion CFU of the probiotic L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 in combination with 5 μg vitamin D. L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 has a clinically proven effect on bone health, and vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. Osfortis thereby offers a new, natural way to prevent bone loss.

The main difference between Protectis, Gastrus, Prodentis and Osfortis is that they contain different probiotic L. reuteri strains, or combinations of L. reuteri probiotic strains.

Protectis contains L. reuteri DSM 17938
Osfortis contains L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475
Gastrus contains L. reuteri DSM 17938 and L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475
Prodentis contains L. reuteri DSM 17938 and L. reuteri ATCC PTA 5289

All BioGaia’s probiotic products have been tested in clinical studies and found safe and effective.

All BioGaia’s probiotic L. reuteri strains have been shown to survive in the human gastrointestinal tract and to temporarily colonise the small intestine. They have also been shown to have a positive effect on the microbiota composition.

Yes, for several reasons. Firstly, the resident microbiota of an individual is relatively fixed and thereby highly resistant to the establishment of “newcomers”. Even if L. reuteri is of human origin and naturally belongs in our bodies, it only colonises temporarily. Secondly, even though L. reuteri binds to the epithelial lining, the epithelial cells are replaced about once a week, why most of the L. reuteri cells are also washed out. And lastly, the clinical evidence is based on a daily supplementation of L. reuteri Osfortis.

Therefore, to ensure adequate and stable levels of L. reuteri Osfortis in the gastrointestinal tract, it is recommended to take L. reuteri Osfortis every day.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri, formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri and often written L. reuteri, is a probiotic bacterium that has co-evolved with humans since the beginning of time, and because of that it is adapted to its host. L. reuteri is one of the first bacterial species to naturally become established in the microbiota of a newborn baby. BioGaia’s probiotic products with L. reuteri are among the most scientifically well-documented probiotics in the world in terms of both efficacy and safety. To date, over 258 clinical studies with BioGaia’s L. reuteri-strains have been performed in approximately 21,000 people of all ages. Positive results have been shown for several gastrointestinal disorders, oral health, and bone health.

Read more about L. reuteri.

L. reuteri Protectis is a probiotic strain that has been tested in more than 177 human clinical studies (Dec 2022). Products containing this strain are for example BioGaia Protectis baby drops and BioGaia Protectis tabs. The scientific designation of L. reuteri  Protectis is L. reuteri DSM 17938.

L. reuteri Prodentis is a combination of two probiotic strains, L. reuteri DSM 17938 and L. reuteri ATCC PTA 5289. L. reuteri Prodentis is used in BioGaia’s oral health products, such as BioGaia Prodentis lozenges and BioGaia Prodentis drops.

The name BioGaia is made up of two words, Bio and Gaia. Bio stands for life and living organisms, natural, and ecological systems. Gaia, according to Greek mythology, is a goddess, the creator of all life, the sister of Eros and a personification of the Earth.

All our commercial strains are of human origin, naturally colonize humans, and are therefore more likely to have a positive effect on human health. Health benefits have been shown in numerous clinical studies with BioGaia probiotics. Read more about Limosilactobacillus reuteri.

In the product, the bacteria are alive but in a dormant state. They become activated when they come in contact with saliva. By the time they reach the stomach they are fully metabolically active and can start its temporary colonization of the gut.

Based on the results of clinical studies, the dose level of 100 million CFU/day has been chosen as a safe and efficient dose for L. reuteri Protectis. The corresponding dose for L. reuteri Prodentis, Gastrus and Pharax is 200 million CFU/day. The corresponding dose for L. reuteri Osfortis is 10 billion CFU/day.

Keywords: Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Dosage

It is difficult to give an exact answer as the composition of each gut microbiota is unique. Depending on indication/symtom clinical studies have shown different results.* If you are a healthcare professional please read more about our clinical studies here.

*Due to the regulatory situation we cannot communicate the effect of our products or claim health benefits to consumers. In Europe the use of nutrition and health claims is regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and today there are no approved health claims for probiotics. 

The spots are not dangerous and the product can still be used. BioGaia Protectis tablets contains ascorbic acid, which is an antioxidant that contributes to the stability of the tablets. Over time the ascorbic acid oxidizes and the color becomes darker. This darkening is seen as small “spots” on the tablet.

In BioGaia we are constantly working on improving our products. The Easydropper is a new delivery system for probiotic products. It has an improved drop function which facilitates the administration of the product​ and less environmental impact compared to glass bottles.

Yes, BioGaia producs can be taken together with antibiotics. Antibiotics disrupt the natural balance in the gut. As BioGaia products help to maintain a balanced gut microbiota, they may reduce common side effects of antibiotics. We recommend to take the antibiotic two hours before or after the probiotic.

We do not recommend the use of BioGaia Protectis drops to preterm infants.

It cannot be recommended to use BioGaia’s probiotic L. reuteri strains for yoghurt production. The BioGaia L. reuteri strains are probiotic bacteria of human origin that thrives in the human GI tract and exerts its effect there. It does not produce the right compounds that turn milk into yoghurt. They do not multiply properly and do not give texture or flavor to the product when fermented in any type of food.

BioGaia cannot take responsibility for the safety of “yoghurt products” produced at home with our probiotic strains.

The recommended daily dose is one capsule twice daily, taken with food. Each capsule contains 5 billion CFU of L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475.

The dose is based on the results from clinical trials, i.e., the dose that has been shown to be efficient in clinical trials for this specific indication. The clinical trial by Nilsson et al. 2018¹ showed significantly reduced bone loss in older women with low bone mineral density at a dose of 10 billion CFU of L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 (Osfortis) per day. Therefore, the recommended daily dose of Osfortis is 10 billion CFU/day.

_{1. Nilsson AG, Sundh D, Bäckhed F, Lorentzon M. (2018) Lactobacillus reuteri reduces bone loss in older women with low bone mineral density – a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial. J Intern Med. 284:307-317. doi: 10.1111/joim.12805}

It does not matter if BioGaia’s probiotic products are taken with or without food. What is important is to take it on a daily basis. However, products containing Vitamin D should preferably be taken together with food for better uptake.

The recommended daily dose of L. reuteri Protectis is 100 million CFU (Colony Forming Units). This dose is provided by 5 drops of BioGaia Protectis drops or 1 BioGaia Protectis tablet.

Keywords: Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Dosage

Yes, for more than one reason. The resident microbiota of an individual is relatively fixed and thereby highly resistant to the establishment of “newcomers”. Even if L. reuteri is of human origon and naturally belongs in our bodies, the L. reuteri Protectis strain doesn’t colonize forever, especially not, when given after the age of three.

Even an indigenous bacterium like L. reuteri should be taken on a regular basis, since most people of modern society does not get colonized by L. reuteri during infancy. The epithelial lining covers our gastrointestinal tract and works like a skin on the inside of our bodies. The main task of our ”inner skin” is to differentiate between what should be absorbed and what should not be let into our bodies. Biopsies have shown that L. reuteri is temporarily binding to our epithelial lining. However, since the cells in our epithelial lining is replaced every fourth day, the majority of L. reuteri cells are also washed away within a week or so. Since L. reuteri colonization is transient, every day intake is recommended to ensure adequate and stable levels of L. reuteri in the gastrointestinal tract.

Read more about the epithelial lining – Gatekeepers in the gut

Yes, it is safe to take BioGaia products together with pharmaceuticals and other supplements.*

*If you have any medical conditions, always consult your healthcare professional for advice.

The recommended dose of a probiotic does not depend on bodyweight. BioGaia’s clinical studies show efficacy with the same dose both in children and adults.

Keywords: Dosage

Clinical studies have shown that BioGaia Protectis drops are safe to give from day of birth.

Keywords: Newborn, Birth

Yes, the drops can be added to formula and/or breast milk. Do not add to liquids warmer than 37°C/99°F. If adding to liquids, make sure to consume within the same day.

• We strongly recommend giving our probiotic drops by spoon.
• Shake the bottle well for 10 seconds before each use to mix the bacteria culture with the oil.
• To dispense the drops tilt the bottle and give by spoon.
• Use 5 drops once daily.
• Do not add to hot drink or food as this may damage the live bacteria.

Keywords: Newborn, Birth

The recommended daily dose of L. reuteri Prodentis is 200 million CFU, or 2 x 10^8 CFU. You get this dose by consuming 1 BioGaia Prodentis lozenge or 5 drops of BioGaia Prodentis drops.

Keywords: Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, Dosage

In BioGaia Prodentis lozenges neither milk protein nor lactose is used in the manufacturing, and the gluten level is below EU limit value for gluten-free products. As food regulation varies from country to country, the product labelling may differ.

Neither milk protein nor lactose is used in the manufacturing of BioGaia Osfortis. The culture used in the Osfortis product, is fermented on a barely based medium. Final product may contain more than 20 ppm per daily dose. As food regulation varies from country to country, the product labelling may differ.

Common allergens such as egg, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish and soy have not been used in the manufacturing of BioGaia Osfortis. The product has no added sugar, preservatives, colour or flavouring.

All ingredients in BioGaia Osfortis are of non-animal origin.

In BioGaia Protectis tablets neither milk protein nor lactose are detectable, and the gluten level is below EU limit value for gluten-free products. As food regulation varies from country to country, the product labelling may differ.

BioGaia Protectis drops do not contain lactose or milk protein. In the finished product the gluten level is below EU limit value for gluten-free products. As food regulation varies from country to country, the product labelling may differ.

Common allergens such as egg, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish and soy have not been used in the manufacturing of BioGaia products.

Our products are sold by distribution partners in around 100 countries. Usually, they are sold through the major pharmacy chains. For information on where to buy our products, please contact our distribution partner in your country.

Please go to Distribution network for more information.

Yes. Daily supplementation of L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 for 12 months has been shown to significantly reduce bone loss in older women with low bone mineral density, when compared to placebo. It was shown in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 90 older women (75-80 years old) with incipient osteoporosis. The patients received 10 billion CFU of L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 per day.

Inflammation is a major cause of bone loss. L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 has in preclinical trials been shown to affect immune cells that control bone remodelling. This leads to an increased activity of osteoblasts, that build bone, and a decreased activity of osteoclasts, that degrade bone, resulting in an increased bone density.^2,3

_{1. Collins FL, Rios-Arce ND, Schepper JD, Jones AD, Schaefer L, Britton RA, McCabe LR, Parameswaran N. (2019) Beneficial effects of Lactobacillus reuteri 6475 on bone density in male mice is dependent on lymphocytes. Sci Rep. 9(1):14708. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-51293-8.}

_{2. Britton RA, Irwin R, Quach D, Schaefer L, Zhang J, Lee T, Parameswaran N, McCabe LR. (2014) Probiotic reuteri treatment prevents bone loss in a menopausal ovariectomized mouse model. J Cell Physiol. 229:1822–1830.}

Probiotics are good bacteria that can be found in dietary supplements and sometimes in dairy products. Probiotics are defined as ”live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” (WHO/FAO 2002, Hill C et al. 2014). An important criterium for qualifying as a true probiotic is that health benefits have been proven in clinical studies. Furthermore, a probiotic product must contain the same bacterial strain(s) and the same dose that was used in the clinical studies.

Probiotics have shown beneficial effects in gastrointestinal disorders such as colic, constipation, and diarrhea. Promising results have also been shown for the maintenance of a normal immune function and protection against infections. Further, probiotics have  shown benefits in oral health. BioGaia offers clinically-proven and user-friendly probiotic products to consumers world wide. Due to the regulatory situation we cannot communicate the effect of our products or claim health benefits. In Europe the use of nutrition and health claims is regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and today there are no approved health claims for probiotics.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Prebiotics are fibres and carbohydrates that stimulate the growth of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.

Bacteria are classified into genus, species and strains. Probiotic strains of the same species have different characteristics, and may therefore have different health effects. For example, clinical studies with the two strains, L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 and L. reuteri DSM 17938, have shown different effects in clinical studies. That is why a probiotic product must be defined on strain level.

Multi-strain products containing several strains in high doses do not necessarily have a better effect than a single-strain product. Important criteria when choosing a probiotic product are:

• The probiotic bacteria must be defined on strain level

• The probiotic product must have been tested in human clinical studies, with the same dose and with the same bacterial strain(s) as in the commercial product.

Exposure to high temperatures and/or high humidity will significantly shorten the shelf-life of the product. However, the product will still be safe to use.

BioGaia Protectis drops comes in two different versions, we therefore recommend you to follow the instructions on the package. However, if room temperature is above 25°C/77°F we always recommend storage in the fridge.

BioGaia Protectis baby drops should not be stored in the freezer, as this will significantly shorten the shelf-life of the product.

BioGaia products comes in different versions, we therefore recommend you to follow the instructions on the package. However, if room temperature is above 25°C/77°F we always recommend storage in the fridge.