Is it Safe to Take Probiotics with Antibiotics? Experts Weigh In
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat bacterial infections. While they can be effective in fighting infections, they can also have some negative side effects on the digestive system. Antibiotics work by killing the harmful bacteria in the body, but they also kill the good bacteria that help keep the body healthy. This imbalance in the gut can lead to diarrhea, constipation, and other digestive problems.
Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms that can help replenish the good bacteria in the gut. They can be found in certain foods and supplements, and have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improving digestive health and boosting the immune system.
The Debate Over Antibiotics and Probiotics
While many people believe that taking probiotics with antibiotics can help alleviate some of the negative side effects of antibiotics, some experts argue that there is little evidence to support this claim. In fact, some studies have suggested that taking probiotics while taking antibiotics may actually be harmful.
A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that taking probiotics with antibiotics did not significantly reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. In fact, the study found that people who took probiotics had a slightly higher risk of developing diarrhea than those who did not take probiotics.
Other studies have shown that taking probiotics with antibiotics may interfere with the effectiveness of the antibiotic. One study found that when probiotics were taken with the antibiotic ceftriaxone, the antibiotic was less effective in treating a bacterial infection.
When Probiotics May Be Helpful
While there is some debate over the effectiveness of probiotics when taken with antibiotics, there are some situations where probiotics may be helpful.
Some experts suggest taking probiotics after finishing a course of antibiotics to help replenish the good bacteria in the gut that may have been killed off by the antibiotics. This can help prevent digestive problems and other negative side effects that can occur after taking antibiotics.
Another situation where probiotics may be helpful is when taking antibiotics that are known to cause severe digestive problems. In these cases, taking probiotics may help alleviate some of the symptoms and improve digestive health.
Choosing the Right Probiotic
If you do decide to take probiotics while taking antibiotics, it is important to choose the right probiotic supplement. Look for supplements that contain a variety of different strains of bacteria, as different strains have different health benefits.
You should also look for supplements that contain at least 1 billion CFUs (colony forming units) per dose. This will ensure that you are getting a sufficient amount of probiotics to make a difference in your digestive health.
It is also important to choose a reputable brand that uses high quality, pure ingredients. Look for supplements that are independently tested for purity and potency.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the evidence on whether or not it is safe to take probiotics with antibiotics is mixed. While some studies have suggested that taking probiotics may not be helpful and may even be harmful, others have shown that probiotics can be beneficial in certain situations.
If you do decide to take probiotics with antibiotics, make sure to choose the right supplement and talk to your doctor about the best way to take them. Your doctor may recommend taking probiotics at a different time than the antibiotics.
Remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Listen to your body and talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you may have about taking probiotics with antibiotics.
