My LLMD has switched my abx protocol quite a few times in a relatively short period. Now I'm afraid that the bugs have built up resistance and I am headed in the wrong direction where I will need stronger and stronger abx.
I'm going to see a new LLMD to get on one protocol for a longer period of time. I've been thinking that I may take a total break from abx while I await my appointment with the new LLMD -- over a month away. Then I can start my new protocol fresh. It would also allow me to do another round of testing to see if my Igenex Lyme test looks more positive or any co-infections reveal themselves.
However, I'm afraid that a break may cause even more resistance. If anyone has any thoughts, I'd very much appreciate them. Thanks.
Posted by Remember to Smile (Member # 25481) on :
Breaks in prescribed dosing of one particular antibiotic could lead to resistance. It's better to use one abx for the full course, then not go back to it again.
Trouble comes when average Joes or Janes individually try to out-guess their doctors, ducks, LLMD, D.O., pharmacists, professional herbalists, etc. If you don't have thorough knowledge of the pharmacological properties of an antibiotic your LLMD, D.O., or duck prescribes, than you'd best: take it as prescribed, OR call the doc to request a change, OR don't begin the prescription until you fully understand the plan.
Not finishing the full course of an antibiotic is the main cause of resistance because that can leave some of the hardy, fitter critters that were about to kick off, until you stopped dosing. They get to live, and breed. Just like Borrelia does when ignorant ducks Rx just a pinch of doxy for a few weeks. The spirochetes duck their teeny heads, then snicker, then live on, and breed...
I'm not a doc, haven't read your old threads, so just offering my thoughts on your post above...
Having an ILADS-active LLMD switch /adjust /tweak /modify your abx protocol often can be very effective. Our LLMDs are very aware of the dangers of abx resistance and prescribe with care to avoid that.
In terms of pathology, seems better to keep smacking the unwanted hoards with an ongoing array of abx to keep 'em on the run.
I think it's unwise to "take a total break from abx" for a month if you're relatively new to treating your neuroborreliosis. That could make things more difficult for you.
A great way to start fresh with new LLMD: - take daily notes of your symptoms - drink lots of lemon water, healing broths - eliminate all cow dairy, wheat, gluten, soy, sugars, and simple carbs from your diet - detox gently with epsom salt baths - get as much rest and sleep as possible - exercise gently as you're able
More IGeneX testing has little value compared to the above! Our good, ILADS-active LLMDs can listen to you, examine you, take your detailed health history, and then properly diagnose & appropriately treat your unique infections and imbalances based on your clinical presentation. PLUS, you already have blood work to show your new LLMD. Perfect.
Have faith, not fear. You've made it safely to the Underground Railroad of Lyme. Members here will shepherd you along.
Peace, Smile
Posted by the3030club (Member # 21898) on :
2 Ilads docs have told me that Lyme isn't known to build resistance to antibiotics.
I think it's super tough to begin with, but i don't think it adapts.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
quote:Originally posted by 365SunnyDays: [QB] My LLMD has switched my abx protocol quite a few times in a relatively short period.
Keep on going!
If you have no confidence in him, then switch doctors. But stay on what you're taking for now.
just my opinion
Posted by TF (Member # 14183) on :
Stay on meds. The meds will not affect coinfection test results.
If you stop meds, that just allows the germs to multiply without interference. And, if you have coinfections, within 2 weeks you could get very sick.
Also, changing medications frequently is not known to cause medication resistance, so I think you have nothing to worry about in that regard.
Posted by nefferdun (Member # 20157) on :
I quit abx for a month while waiting for my LLMD with the rationale that I was clearing myself of a yeast infection. By the time I got to the doctor I was very sick and have not fully recovered yet.
The time it takes to relapse is days- weeks but the time it takes to recover is months.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
I'd stay on. There is no need for more testing if you've already seen a positive test.
Posted by Remember to Smile (Member # 25481) on :
Lots of sound advice offered above.
Questions like this are good to pose to your local pharmacist, too.
Posted by bcb1200 (Member # 25745) on :
From what I have heard, read, and researched...If you've been on for months, etc, stopping cold turkey for a drug holiday is okay. You may relapse, but it shouldn't cause any sort of resistance.
Accoarding to the 2010 ILADS conference notes (search here), what CAN cause resistence is lowering the dosage over time...(i.e. gradually reducing dose over several days / weeks.)