LymeNet Flash: antibiotics VS probiotics

This is topic antibiotics VS probiotics in forum Medical Questions at LymeNet Flash.

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Posted by lymeinnh (Member # 10454) on :

Hi all-

I'm currently on IV rocephin and have been taking acidophilus all along.

However, I didn't feel it was enough probiotics so I've started taking Kefir as well.

I know that you're not supposed to take probiotics and antibiotics at the same time because they will cancel eachother out (right?!?!)

My question is: how long do you wait between taking your ABX and PBX?

I've heard anywhere from 2 hours to 4 hours.

And I've even heard that you should wait to take PBX until you're completely done taking your ABX (that doesn't sound right to me.)

Thoughts anyone?? THANKS [group hug]

Posted by Vermont_Lymie (Member # 9780) on :

Definitely, keep taking those probiotics while on abx!

For me, taking probiotics while on abx has worked great, most days.

I try to separate taking my oral abx from taking probiotics (usually in capsule form) at least one hour -- most people here I think would suggest separating their use by 2 hours.

I have been advised especially, to take probiotics two hours before a meal.

Hope that helps and take care!

Posted by Aniek (Member # 5374) on :

Two hours is the general rule for seperating oral medication and supplements. That makes sure they aren't in your stomach at the same time. I'm not sure if the same rule holds true with IV.

As far as probiotics, many people see great success taking Theralac. It's a really strong probiotic, that you can buy online at www.theralac.com

Posted by JeffM (Member # 8919) on :

My doc says it doesnt matter when you take the probiotics, if you are taking the high dose ones.

I take culturelle and BioK. Each have 50 billion. I read on here somewhere, however, that some random batches of culturelle had lost their potency.

Posted by 5dana8 (Member # 7935) on :

I have also heard 2 hours. If the abx is too close to the pro-biotics the abx will kill off the good flora you are trying to replace.

In general I would try to take them as far away as possible from you abx. Right before bed is a good time. Becuase you will have a very long time for the pro-biotics ro trive in your system.

Hope this helps [Smile]

none of the abvoe is medical advice, just my personal opinion