Microbiologic characteristics of Lactobacillus products used for colonization of the vagina
Article Abstract:
Lactobacilli (organisms that produce lactic acid) are normally present in the human vagina, where they contribute to maintaining an acidic condition that inhibits the growth of other vaginal microorganisms. A variety of non-prescription preparations containing Lactobacillus have been touted as helpful in treating vaginitis (vaginal inflammation), but it is possible that the content of these preparations is not what it is purported to be. To better determine the Lactobacillus content and purity of such products, 16 non-prescription agents containing Lactobacillus were analyzed. Three yogurt products, four Lactobacillus powder preparations, two acidophilus milk products, and six lactobacilli-containing capsules were studied. Since Lactobacillus species that manufacture hydrogen peroxide are present in the normal vagina, production of this compound, as well as bacterial concentration and possible contaminants, were determined for each agent. Results showed considerable variation among the substances in their content of Lactobacillus species (between 100,000 and 10 billion bacteria per gram). Different products contained different species of Lactobacillus and 11 contained non-Lactobacillus bacteria. Not all the lactobacilli produced hydrogen peroxide; milk and yogurt products were more likely to contain organisms that did. However, yogurt and milk contained other bacteria, as well, or other species of Lactobacillus. Overall, these preparations were not ideal for use to 're-colonize' (restore normal flora to) the vagina, and their use cannot be recommended. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0029-7844
Year: 1990
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Randomized comparison of meperidine and fentanyl during labor
Article Abstract:
Narcotic medications are often used to relieve the pain associated with labor contractions. Although meperidine (Demerol) is the narcotic analgesic of choice, the drug can produce many side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, prolonged drowsiness and slowed respirations in the mother and infant during and after birth. The narcotic analgesic fentanyl is stronger, has a shorter duration of action, causes less nausea, and less maternal and fetal respiratory depression. The effectiveness of meperidine and fentanyl were compared in 105 women who were in active labor. Women received either 50-100 micrograms of fentanyl per hour intravenously (IV) or 25-50 milligrams of meperidine IV every 2-3 hours. Women treated with meperidine experienced more nausea, vomiting and prolonged sedation than the women who were given fentanyl. Naloxone, a drug that reverses the effects of narcotics, was required for 1 of 49 infants born to women who received fentanyl, and 7 of 56 infants born to women given meperidine. Newborn assessments performed 2 and 24 hours after delivery were similar in both infant groups. Because fentanyl caused fewer side effects and fewer babies of fentanyl-treated mothers required naloxone, it is the preferred narcotic for pain relief during labor. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0029-7844
Year: 1989
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