LymeNet Flash: How will you know when you are done with abx treatment?

This is topic How will you know when you are done with abx treatment? in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

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Posted by docjen (Member # 7510) on :

Just wondering this question myself, and thought I would throw it out there. I have been on various abx combinations for about 15 months, and I don't feel I have hit a plateau yet, but I am feeling much better. How do you/will you know when you are done with the antibiotics and it is relatively safe to go off and see how you fare? I am so worried about refractory symptoms that I'm afraid I'm holding onto these abx like a life preserver!

Thanks all!

Posted by davidx (Member # 8326) on :

That's a good question. I wonder the same thing sometimes. How do you know when lyme treatment has done all it can and the remaining symptoms are either permanent or may resolve on their own?

-David

Posted by Areneli (Member # 6740) on :

When you no longer herx after high dose ABX.
You try a few treatments and observe no herx after any.
Than add another 3-4 months of treatment just to be safe and you are done.

Posted by AZURE WISH (Member # 804) on :

Just because you dont herx doesnt mean your not still sick.

There have been periods in my treatment where I did not herx at all I just got better.

I can tell you that I plan to be on abx for a little while after all my symptoms are gone. You and your dr are going to have to figure out what feels comfortable for you.

Best wishes

Posted by northstar (Member # 7911) on :

Have you tried pulsing to see how your body reacts?

the first time I tried it, I had symptoms by day 4, but I just did a 2 day treatment, then went back to the full pulse. Each time symptoms were less and less, and the well period was longer.

It takes a long time for the body to heal itself.

Northstar

Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :

Dr B says to take abx until you are symptom free for at least two months.

Dr. B's Guidelines
http://www.ilads.org/files/burrascano_0905.pdf
http://www.ilads.org/burrascano_1102.htm

Posted by Areneli (Member # 6740) on :

In addition to what I wrote above you may also do WB in IgM class (forget IgG).
You should be negative. If you are positive you are still sick.

Posted by AZURE WISH (Member # 804) on :

and if you test negative you could still be sick.

Posted by Areneli (Member # 6740) on :

anyway, there is no 'special intuitional way' of making decision that can be developed by doctor patient relationship as suggested.

Posted by concerned mother (Member # 8128) on :

My sons doctor says until you at least two months sympton free.

We are waiting for that day! [Big Grin]