Saccharomyces boulardii for Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI)
BMeta-analyses show S. boulardii reduces CDI recurrence by 50-60% when given as adjunct to standard antibiotic treatment. Strongest evidence for preventing recurrent CDI.
The Bottom Line
Meta-analyses show S. boulardii reduces CDI recurrence by 50-60% when given as adjunct to standard antibiotic treatment. Strongest evidence for preventing recurrent CDI.
Key Study Findings
Population: Pediatric population
Population: Patients with C. difficile infection
Population: None
Population: None
Population: None
Population: Adults with GI conditions
Key Statistics
6
Studies
3000
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 250-500 mg/day (equivalent to 5-10 billion CFU)
- aadprevention:
- 500 mg/day (start with antibiotic, continue 7 days after)
- cdiffprevention:
- 500 mg twice daily as adjunct to standard therapy
- travelersdiarrhea:
- 250-500 mg/day starting 5 days before travel
Upper limit: Well-tolerated up to 1,000 mg/day in clinical trials
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | 520 weeks | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | 228 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
Best taken: Can be taken with or without food; space 2 hours from antifungals
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Mild gas and bloating
- ⚠ Rare: fungemia in critically ill patients with central venous catheters
- ⚠ Thirst (yeast may increase water requirements)
- ⚠ Very rare: potential environmental contamination risk in ICU settings
Known Interactions
- ● Antifungal medications (may kill S. boulardii, reducing effectiveness)
- ● Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (S. boulardii contains tyramine)
- ● Immunosuppressants (theoretical risk of fungemia in immunocompromised patients)
Tolerable upper intake: Well-tolerated up to 1,000 mg/day in clinical trials
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Saccharomyces boulardii help with Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI)?
How much Saccharomyces boulardii should I take for Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI)?
Are there side effects of Saccharomyces boulardii?
How strong is the evidence for Saccharomyces boulardii and Clostridioides difficile Infection (CDI)?
Related Evidence
Saccharomyces boulardii for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.