FDA Issues Warning on Probiotic Products Linked to Infant Injuries

The U.S. FDA has issued warning letters to Abbott Laboratories and another company for illegally marketing probiotics linked to injuries and death in premature infants. The FDA warned healthcare providers and the public about the potential dangers of these products, which can cause invasive and potentially fatal infections. One death and numerous injuries since 2018 have been associated with these supplements. Following the FDA's warning, Abbott Laboratories agreed to halt sales of its product, Similac Probiotic Tri-BIend. Another probiotic, Evivo with MCT Oil, was linked to a premature infant's death, leading to its voluntary recall. According to the FDA, probiotic supplements are not approved as a treatment for babies.