Is Adbi Probiotic Considered a Medication or Over-the-Counter Supplement? - Pharmacology

Share to:

Adbi Probiotics


Is Adbi probiotics considered a medication? Some doctors can prescribe it to patients, but it is also available for purchase at pharmacies without a prescription.
So, is Adbi probiotics classified as a medication?

Ruby, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/04/01

Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology


Dear Ruby: After accessing the inquiry website http://203.65.100.151/DO8180.asp, the following information was obtained:
Chinese Product Name: 阿德比膠囊
English Product Name: ANTIBIOPHILUS CAPSULES
Indications: Temporary relief of mild diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, intestinal regulation (adjusting bowel movements), and softening stools.

Dosage Form: Capsule
Drug Category: 07 (Requires physician's instructions for use)
A physician can prescribe this medication to patients, but currently, the National Health Insurance only covers ANTIBIOPHILUS CAPSULES for patients undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, specifically for diarrhea caused during the treatment period.
ANTIBIOPHILUS CAPSULES is a pharmaceutical product.

Wishing you all the best! Stay healthy and happy!

Reply Date: 2010/04/01

More Info


Adbi Probiotic is classified as a dietary supplement rather than a medication. Probiotics, including Adbi, are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are often used to support gut health, enhance digestion, and boost the immune system. Unlike medications, which are typically regulated more stringently by agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dietary supplements are subject to different regulations.

In the United States, dietary supplements do not require a prescription and can be purchased over-the-counter at pharmacies, health food stores, and online. This accessibility is one of the key differences between dietary supplements and prescription medications. While some healthcare providers may recommend or prescribe probiotics for specific health conditions, they are not classified as drugs because they do not undergo the same rigorous testing for efficacy and safety that pharmaceuticals do.

The FDA does not evaluate dietary supplements for their effectiveness before they are marketed. Instead, it is the responsibility of the manufacturers to ensure that their products are safe and that any claims made about them are substantiated. This means that while some doctors may prescribe probiotics like Adbi for certain conditions, it is important to understand that these products are not considered medications in the traditional sense.

In terms of usage, probiotics can be beneficial for various gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. They may also play a role in managing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and may help in restoring the natural balance of gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment. However, the effectiveness of probiotics can vary widely among individuals, and not all probiotics are the same. Different strains of probiotics have different effects, and the specific health benefits can depend on the strain used and the dosage.

When considering the use of probiotics, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if there are underlying health conditions or if the individual is immunocompromised. While probiotics are generally considered safe for most people, there can be exceptions, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health needs.

In summary, Adbi Probiotic is classified as a dietary supplement rather than a medication. It can be purchased without a prescription and is used to support gut health and overall wellness. While it may be prescribed by some healthcare providers, it is important to approach its use with an understanding of its classification and the variability in individual responses to probiotics.

Similar Q&A

Managing Abdominal Discomfort: Over-the-Counter Solutions and When to See a Doctor

Recently, I've been feeling a sense of heaviness in my abdomen, experiencing unformed stools, and having slight nausea with a feeling of wanting to vomit, but I can't. I currently don't have time to see a doctor. Can I relieve these symptoms by taking over-the-coun...


Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Abdominal discomfort, nausea, and irregular stools are common gastrointestinal symptoms that require understanding their underlying causes for appropriate treatment. Common causes include indigestion, gastroenteritis, and food poisoning from unclean sources. For gastroenteritis, ...

[Read More] Managing Abdominal Discomfort: Over-the-Counter Solutions and When to See a Doctor


Can You Buy Bladder Overactive Medications Over the Counter?

Can I purchase bladder overactive medication such as Detrol LA extended-release capsules, Vesicare film-coated tablets, Minirin tablets, and DAMPURINE at a pharmacy without a prescription? Thank you for your response.


Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, theoretically, these are all medications prescribed by physicians. As for whether they can be purchased at a pharmacy, I'm not sure. You can check with a nearby pharmacy to see if they have them available. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and w...

[Read More] Can You Buy Bladder Overactive Medications Over the Counter?


Is Kangti Mai Eye Ointment Prescription-Only or Over-the-Counter?

I would like to ask if this eye ointment is a prescription medication. Can it be purchased at a regular pharmacy, or are there over-the-counter alternatives with similar effects? I do not have a medical consultation record, and while I am doing well, I know someone with the same ...


Dr. Chen Yuemei reply Pharmacology
Hello: Kangti Mai New Eye Ointment (Ingredients: NEOMYCIN (SULFATE) / HYDROCORTISONE ACETATE) contains an antibiotic and a corticosteroid, making it a prescription medication that must be prescribed by a physician. Even for purchase at a regular pharmacy, a doctor's prescrip...

[Read More] Is Kangti Mai Eye Ointment Prescription-Only or Over-the-Counter?


Over-the-Counter Medications vs. Doctor Visits for Colds: What's the Difference?

Since childhood, I have always had a question: I see television commercials promoting over-the-counter medications for colds, yet most elders still say that one should see a doctor for a cold. Is there a difference between these two approaches?


Dr. Lin Peiyu reply Pharmacology
Hello, over-the-counter medications can be categorized into three levels based on their safety: non-prescription drugs, indicated drugs, and prescription drugs. Non-prescription drugs are those with mild effects and higher safety, which do not require guidance from healthcare pro...

[Read More] Over-the-Counter Medications vs. Doctor Visits for Colds: What's the Difference?


Related FAQ

Dietary Supplements

(Pharmacology)

Drug Classification

(Pharmacology)

Dietary Supplements

(Orthopedics)

Hepatitis B Medication

(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Antibiotics

(Internal Medicine)

Health Supplements

(Internal Medicine)

Pediatric Medications

(Pharmacology)

Antibiotic

(Otolaryngology)

Dietary Supplements

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Other

(Pharmacology)