Gefilus Drops: LGG Probiotic Guide for Infants and Adults
Gefilus drops contain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), one of the most extensively studied probiotic strains in the world. Produced by Finnish dairy company Valio for over 30 years, these drops have become a staple in many Estonian households, particularly for infants and young children.
This guide covers what the science actually says about LGG, who benefits most from these drops, and what to consider before buying.
TL;DR
- LGG is one of the most researched probiotic strains with over 1,000 clinical studies
- Gefilus drops are suitable from birth onward and for adults
- Proven benefits: reducing diarrhea duration, preventing antibiotic-associated side effects, lowering atopic dermatitis risk in high-risk infants
- Dosing: infants typically 5 drops daily (~10⁹ CFU), adults 5–10 drops
- Store in the fridge after opening
What Is LGG and Why Does It Matter?
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG was isolated in 1985 by Sherwood Gorbach and Barry Goldin (hence the initials GG). It stands apart from most probiotics because it has genuine, large-scale clinical evidence behind it — not just test-tube studies.
LGG adheres to the intestinal mucosa better than many other lactobacilli (Doron et al., 2005). This means it actually colonizes the gut temporarily rather than simply passing through. It strengthens the gut barrier, modulates immune response, and inhibits pathogenic bacteria.
Clinically Proven Benefits
Reducing diarrhea duration. A meta-analysis by Szajewska and Mrukowicz (2001) found that LGG shortens acute diarrhea by approximately one day. It is particularly effective against rotavirus-related diarrhea in children.
Preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea. A Cochrane review by Goldenberg et al. (2015) confirmed that LGG significantly reduces the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children. This is one of its best-supported uses.
Preventing atopic dermatitis. In a landmark study, Kalliomäki et al. (2001) showed that giving LGG during pregnancy and early infancy cut the risk of atopic dermatitis by half in high-risk infants. The effect persisted at 4-year follow-up.
Upper respiratory infections. Hojsak et al. (2010) demonstrated that LGG reduces the frequency of upper respiratory tract infections in children attending daycare centers.
Where the Evidence Is Weaker
LGG is not a miracle cure. Evidence for IBS, Crohn's disease, and weight management is mixed. For these conditions, other strains or multi-strain formulations may be more appropriate.
Dosing and Usage
Infants (0–12 months)
- Dose: 5 drops daily (approximately 10⁹ CFU)
- Administration: Add to breast milk, formula, or give directly from a spoon
- Temperature: Never add to hot liquids (above 37°C kills the bacteria)
- Can be started from the first days of life
Toddlers (1–3 years)
- Dose: 5–10 drops daily
- Mix into food or drink at room temperature or below
Adults
- Dose: 10 drops daily or as directed on the label
- Capsules and tablets are often more convenient for adults
Key Considerations
- Shake the bottle before use (bacteria settle)
- Refrigerate after opening
- Use within approximately 2 months of opening
- Free from lactose and gluten
Gefilus Drops vs Other Probiotics
| Feature | Gefilus Drops | Generic Probiotic |
|---|---|---|
| Strain | LGG (specific, well-studied) | Often mixed/unspecified strains |
| Clinical studies | 1,000+ | Varies widely |
| Suitable for infants | Yes, from birth | Not always |
| Form | Drops (easy to dose precisely) | Capsules, powders |
| Origin | Finland (Valio) | Varies |
| Price in Estonia | €15–22 | €8–30 |
Common Mistakes
1. Adding to hot drinks or food. LGG is a live bacterium — temperatures above 37°C destroy it. Always add to cooled food or drink.
2. Inconsistent use. Probiotics work cumulatively. Taking them sporadically produces no meaningful effect.
3. Expecting overnight results. Gut microbiome shifts take time. Allow at least 2–4 weeks of consistent use before evaluating.
4. Taking at the same time as antibiotics. Space the probiotic and antibiotic at least 2 hours apart to avoid the antibiotic killing the probiotic bacteria immediately.
FAQ
Are Gefilus drops safe for newborns?
Yes. LGG drops can be given from birth. The Kalliomäki et al. (2001) study used LGG from the first days of life safely and effectively.
Does LGG help adults too?
Yes. While much of the research focuses on children, LGG has shown benefits in adults for traveler's diarrhea, antibiotic-associated GI issues, and general immune support (Doron et al., 2005).
Do Gefilus drops need refrigeration?
Unopened bottles can be stored at room temperature (below 25°C), but refrigerate after opening. Heat reduces the live bacteria count over time.
Can you take LGG with antibiotics?
Yes, and it is actually recommended. Just leave at least a 2-hour gap between taking the antibiotic and the probiotic. Goldenberg et al. (2015) confirmed LGG reduces antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Where to buy in Estonia?
Gefilus drops are available in pharmacies and supplement stores across Estonia, typically priced €15–22. MaxFit also carries LGG-based probiotic products.
Estonia Context
In Estonia, Gefilus is a well-recognized brand thanks to Valio dairy products, which have included LGG for years. The drops are especially popular among young parents — Estonian pediatricians frequently recommend them for colic and immune support.
Winter season (October–March) is a particularly important time for probiotic use in Estonia, as viral infections peak. The LGG research on daycare children (Hojsak et al., 2010) is directly relevant to Estonian families with children in lasteaed.
References
- Doron, S., Snydman, D. R., & Gorbach, S. L. (2005). Lactobacillus GG: Bacteriology and clinical applications. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, 34(3), 483–498.
- Goldenberg, J. Z., Lytvyn, L., Steurich, J., Parkin, P., Mahant, S., & Johnston, B. C. (2015). Probiotics for the prevention of pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (12), CD004827.
- Hojsak, I., Snovak, N., Abdović, S., Szajewska, H., Mišak, Z., & Kolaček, S. (2010). Lactobacillus GG in the prevention of gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections in children who attend day care centers. Clinical Nutrition, 29(3), 312–316.
- Kalliomäki, M., Salminen, S., Arvilommi, H., Kero, P., Koskinen, P., & Isolauri, E. (2001). Probiotics in primary prevention of atopic disease: a randomised placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 357(9262), 1076–1079.
- Szajewska, H., & Mrukowicz, J. Z. (2001). Probiotics in the treatment and prevention of acute infectious diarrhea in infants and children. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, 33(Suppl 2), S17–S25.
See also:
- Fitpoint Tallinn: Complete Guide 2026
- Samarin & Liver Support Supplements: What Actually Works?
- Home Gym Setup Guide: What You Actually Need (and What You Don't)
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See also our probiotics guide and bloating and digestion article.
