Do you experience bloating, gas, indigestion, or have questions about how to take care of your gut microbiota? At a pharmacy, you can find probiotics, prebiotics, fiber supplements, oral rehydration solutions, and products for specific digestive needs.
However, not all products serve the same purpose. The right choice depends on your symptoms, how long they last, your medications, and your overall health. At Farmàcia Pasteur, we explain the available options, when they may be useful, and how to choose them with professional pharmaceutical advice.
World Gastroenterology Organisation: probiotic and prebiotic guide
What are probiotics and what are they used for?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when taken in appropriate amounts, provide a health benefit.
Some belong to groups such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium; others are yeasts, such as Saccharomyces boulardii.
Their usefulness depends on the specific strain, the amount taken, and the condition being addressed.
Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that any probiotic improves digestion or automatically restores the gut microbiota.
When can probiotics help?
During antibiotic treatment
Some antibiotics can alter the microbiota and cause diarrhea.
Certain probiotic strains have been shown to reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in some populations. However, not all products have the same evidence, and they should not be used indiscriminately.
If you are taking antibiotics, ask which strain may be suitable, when to start, and how to space out the doses if necessary.
For gas and abdominal bloating
Some probiotics have been studied for symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, but results vary, and clinical guidelines do not agree on recommending their routine use.
In addition, bloating may be caused by intolerances, constipation, dietary habits, or other factors.
Before choosing a supplement, it is best to identify what triggers the discomfort.
For constipation
Some strains may modestly improve certain aspects of bowel transit, but the evidence does not support recommending any probiotic as a general treatment.
In many cases, gradually increasing fiber intake, drinking enough water, and staying active are more important initial measures.
What other options does a pharmacy offer to support digestion?
Probiotics are not the only option.
| Option | When may it be useful? |
|---|---|
| Prebiotics | These are substances selectively used by intestinal microorganisms that provide a health benefit. Some fibers have a prebiotic effect. |
| Soluble fiber | It may help regulate bowel transit, especially in certain cases of constipation. |
| Synbiotics | They combine live microorganisms with substances that promote their use, with benefits depending on the formulation. |
| Oral rehydration salts | They help replenish water and electrolytes lost during episodes of diarrhea or vomiting. |
| Products for intolerances | For example, preparations with lactase for people who have difficulty digesting lactose. |
The best choice depends on the cause of the problem. A product for constipation will not necessarily help with bloating or diarrhea.
How to choose a good probiotic from a pharmacy?
Before buying, check these five aspects:
- Identified strain: look for the genus, species, and preferably the strain code.
- Scientific evidence: check that the strain has been studied for your specific need.
- Amount of microorganisms: is usually expressed in colony-forming units (CFUs). More CFUs do not necessarily mean greater effectiveness.
- Storage: some products require refrigeration; others are stable at room temperature.
- Duration and directions for use: follow the specific instructions and check whether you need to continue the treatment.
There is no single probiotic that is best for everyone.
Is it better to take probiotics or eat fermented foods?
Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and other fermented foods can be part of a balanced diet.
However, not all fermented foods contain microorganisms with proven probiotic benefits.
Supplements allow you to identify specific strains and amounts, but they are not necessary for everyone.
A varied diet rich in plant-based foods and fiber remains an important foundation for supporting gut health .
ENFAF: how to choose probiotics from a pharmacy
Do probiotics have contraindications?
They are generally well tolerated by healthy people, although they may cause gas or digestive discomfort.
It is especially important to consult a professional before taking them if you have immunosuppression, a serious illness, a central venous catheter, or other complex medical conditions.
If you experience blood in your stool, high fever, severe abdominal pain, dehydration, or persistent symptoms, seek medical attention. In case of diarrhea, proper hydration is a priority.
NIH: usefulness and safety of probiotics
Where can I find probiotics and digestive products in Andorra?
At Farmàcia Pasteur, you can find digestive support products, including probiotics and options for specific needs such as lactose digestion.
Our pharmacy team can help you review the composition, dosage, and compatibility with your medications, as well as advise you on when it is best to see a doctor.
You can explore the Farmàcia Pasteur selection of digestive products and see the options available to buy online in Andorra.
Frequently asked questions about digestive health and probiotics
Can I take probiotics every day?
It depends on the product and the goal. There is no universal recommendation for daily supplementation for all healthy people.
How long does it take to work?
It varies depending on the strain and indication. Some studies evaluate results over several weeks, but there is no common timeframe for all probiotics.
Can I take probiotics with antibiotics?
In certain situations, yes, but it is best to ask which product to use and how to space out the doses. Do not stop taking the prescribed antibiotic.
Do I need probiotics if I experience indigestion?
Not necessarily. First, it is best to assess your diet, meal sizes, symptoms, and their possible causes.
Okfarma: probiotics and digestive health
Support your digestive health with professional pharmaceutical advice
Digestive health does not depend on a single supplement. Diet, hydration, physical activity, and identifying potential problems are essential.
Probiotics may be useful in certain circumstances, but choosing the right one matters more than taking the product with the most strains or the highest number of bacteria.
Do you have questions about which digestive product to choose? Consult the Farmàcia Pasteur team and discover our digestive care options.
