Mutaflor is the name given to a group of medications containing bacteria of the stain Escherichia Coli (E. Coli) Nissle 1917. This bacterium is a member of a class of beneficial microorganisms called probiotics. Mutaflor, like many probiotic medications, is primarily used to prevent or treat gastrointestinal complaints.
One possible benefit of probiotics are their ability to fight off other, more harmful, bacteria in the stomach. The theory is that several bacteria with a single food source will limit the reproduction of one another. As the probiotic is constantly being purposely replaced, it should overgrow the other bacteria.
This theory has mixed results in practice. Generally, mutaflor can be effective in combating some bacteria, including some strains of salmonella. The degree of effectiveness, however, seems to vary among patients. In addition, a study by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology of the University of Otago in New Zealand found that the bacteria had no effect on the growth of certain other drug-resistant Escherichia coli bacteria.
More solid benefits have been seen from the usage of mutaflor in patients with ulcerative colitis. These bacteria reduce irritation from other bacteria along the lining of the intestinal tract. Often, this can reduce the inflammation of the bowels that is associated with colitis flares. In addition, this medication was also shown in a 2004 study by the University of Cologne in Germany to be as effective as standard chemical pharmaceuticals in the prevention of reoccurring ulcerative colitis.
Medications like mutaflor are often prescribed with antibiotics. Often, bacteria that aid in digestion can be killed by prescription antibiotics. As a result, many patients who take these medications are prone to diarrhea. Probiotics can help replace beneficial bacteria, thus preventing this side effect.
There is significant evidence that mutaflor can aid in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although there is some debate as to why the medication is effective. The prevailing theory is that the probiotics affect IBS in the same way as it aids those with ulcerative colitis. Others believe that the medication relieves symptoms by removing harmful bacteria and restoring normal acid levels. A third theory attributes relief to the formation of a protective layer of mucus along gastrointestinal walls.
Most mutaflor users report no noticeable side effects. Rarely, some patients who are using the probiotic for the first time can experience mild nausea and gas. These side effects are generally short in duration and do not require additional treatment. Allergic reactions to this medication are exceedingly rare and are usually linked to inactive ingredients used in its manufacture. Individuals who experience swelling, itching, or shortness of breath after taking this medication should contact a physician immediately.