What is Novaflora Liquid?
Novaflora is an oral suspension probiotic that contains Bacillus clausii spores, a type of beneficial bacteria that aids in restoring intestinal flora balance. It is commonly used to treat and prevent acute or chronic diarrhea caused by infections, drugs, or imbalances in the gut microbiome. The liquid format is packaged in convenient mini-bottles or vials, making it easy to consume for both adults and children.
Preparing and Administering Your Dose
Proper preparation is essential for ensuring you receive the full benefits of the probiotic. Follow these steps for correct administration:
- Check the Expiration Date: Before taking, always confirm that the product is not expired. Novaflora is stable when stored correctly but loses potency over time.
- Shake the Vial Thoroughly: The spores can settle at the bottom of the vial. Shake the mini-bottle vigorously until the suspension is uniformly milky white.
- Twist to Open: To open the vial, twist the cap until it snaps off.
- Administer the Liquid: The contents can be taken directly from the vial. Alternatively, you can mix the liquid with a suitable drink.
- Dilute with a Cool Beverage: Novaflora can be diluted in sweetened water, milk, tea, or orange juice. To protect the live cultures, it is critical not to mix the suspension with hot or carbonated beverages.
- Consume Promptly: Once mixed with a beverage, consume the entire dose within 30 minutes to maintain its efficacy.
Optimal Timing and Administration Frequency
The ideal timing and administration frequency for Novaflora depend on the user's age and specific condition. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations or the instructions on the product packaging.
- Regular Intervals: For treatment, administration at regular intervals, such as every few hours, is often recommended.
- Timing with Antibiotics: If you are taking antibiotics, space your Novaflora dose at least 2 to 3 hours apart from the antibiotic dose. This prevents the antibiotic from killing the beneficial bacteria in the probiotic.
- Consistent Schedule: For consistent gut health support, try to take your dose around the same time each day.
Comparison of Administration Methods
The following table outlines the different ways Novaflora liquid can be administered and what to consider for each.
| Administration Method | Recommended For | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct from vial | Adults and older children who can swallow easily. | Quick, simple, and ensures the full dose is taken. | Might be less palatable for some individuals. |
| Mixed with a cool drink | Children and adults who dislike the taste, or as needed. | Masks the taste and can be more appealing for children. | Requires a compatible liquid (water, milk, juice) and immediate consumption. |
| Mixed with food | Children or individuals with difficulty swallowing liquids. | Can be added to soft foods like yogurt or applesauce. | Requires consuming the entire portion of food quickly to get the full dose. |
Important Considerations and Warnings
Before starting Novaflora, take note of the following precautions:
- For Oral Use Only: The vials are intended for oral suspension and should not be administered in any other way.
- Allergies: Do not use Novaflora if you are hypersensitive to Bacillus clausii or any other ingredients. Watch for allergic reactions such as skin rashes or swelling.
- Immunocompromised Patients: Individuals who are immunocompromised or severely ill should use this product with extreme caution and only under a doctor's supervision. Case reports of bacteremia with B. clausii have been documented, especially in high-risk individuals.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up doses.
Conclusion
Taking Novaflora liquid is a straightforward process designed to be easy and effective for restoring gut flora. The key steps are to shake the vial thoroughly, open it, and either drink the suspension directly or mix it with a cool beverage like water, milk, or juice, being mindful not to use hot or carbonated liquids. For optimal results, adhere to the recommended administration frequency, time doses appropriately around antibiotics, and store the vials below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially for infants, children, or those with compromised immune systems.
Storage Instructions
- Store the vials in a cool, dry place.
- Do not exceed a storage temperature of 30°C (86°F).
- The product is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration.
- Keep Novaflora away from direct heat, moisture, and sunlight to maintain its potency.
