Antibiotics are medications designed to combat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Probiotics, conversely, are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.
Why Combine Probiotics with Antibiotics
Antibiotics work by eliminating bacteria, but they do not distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial bacteria residing in the body, particularly within the gut. This indiscriminate action can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the digestive tract. This disruption can lead to various gastrointestinal side effects, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), which affects a significant number of individuals undergoing antibiotic treatment.
Probiotics can help mitigate these side effects by introducing beneficial bacteria back into the gut. They work to restore a healthier microbial balance, which may have been compromised by antibiotic use. Specific probiotic strains can also support the gut’s integrity and produce substances that inhibit the growth of less beneficial microorganisms. This can help reduce the incidence and severity of symptoms like diarrhea associated with antibiotic treatment.
Optimal Timing for Probiotic Administration
It is generally recommended to begin taking a probiotic supplement on the same day you start your antibiotic course. Continuing probiotic use throughout the entire antibiotic treatment is advised, and often for at least two weeks afterward to support gut microbiome recovery.
Separating the doses of antibiotics and probiotics is also a common recommendation. Taking probiotics at least two to three hours before or after an antibiotic dose can help ensure the probiotic organisms survive and are not immediately targeted by the antibiotic. While some specific probiotic strains may tolerate simultaneous administration, a time gap is broadly suggested for general probiotic use.
Selecting an Effective Probiotic
When choosing a probiotic to use alongside antibiotics, identifying specific strains that have demonstrated efficacy in mitigating antibiotic-associated side effects is beneficial. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii are two such strains often studied for their ability to help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea. These strains have shown promise in maintaining gut flora balance during and after antibiotic treatment.
Beyond specific strains, checking the Colony-Forming Units (CFUs) listed on the product label is important. CFUs indicate the number of live and active microorganisms in a probiotic product, and higher CFU counts are often found in effective supplements, typically ranging from billions to tens of billions per dose. Ensuring the product lists the CFU count at the time of expiration, rather than at the time of manufacture, confirms the viability of the bacteria throughout its shelf life. Proper storage, such as refrigeration for certain types, also helps maintain the viability of these live organisms.
Key Considerations for Use
While probiotics are generally considered safe for most individuals, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially when taking antibiotics. This is particularly true for individuals with compromised immune systems, those who are critically ill, or those with certain underlying health conditions like severe acute pancreatitis. In these cases, the use of probiotics could potentially pose a risk of infection.
Some individuals might experience mild, temporary side effects when first taking probiotics, such as gas, bloating, or changes in bowel habits. These symptoms typically subside as the body adjusts to the new microbial balance. Probiotics are intended to support health and are not a substitute for prescribed medical treatments or antibiotics themselves.