The body has a complex system of regulating digestion and elimination through the work of the gastrointestinal system. Bacteria in the intestines, known as probiotics, are necessary for regulating bowel movements. Antibiotics prescribed for some types of illnesses may upset the numbers of bacteria in the gut, but there are some forms of supplements, such as Culturelle, that may help restore these numbers back to normal.
What is Culturelle?
Culturelle is a type of supplement known as a probiotic, which is designed to add "friendly" bacteria to the body. Culturelle contains a type of bacteria known as Lactobacillus GG, which helps to reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the digestive system that can cause illness. Lactobacillus GG also may help to promote the body's immune system to defend against further disease. You can take Culturelle for diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset such as bloating or gas, associated with taking antibiotics.
Antibiotic Side Effects
For some people, taking antibiotics may cause diarrhea. This occurs when the antibiotics kill bacteria that are causing illness but also kill off the bacteria that normally live in the intestines. Without the normal intestinal bacteria to regulate the texture and frequency of bowel movements, stools become watery, loose and frequent, resulting in diarrhea. You may consider taking Culturelle to restore some of the friendly bacteria in the intestine, particularly if diarrhea is significant. Talk to your doctor before taking Culturelle.
Working Together
Culturelle is available without a prescription and is taken as an oral medication. It is often taken once daily while on antibiotics and is continued for up to two weeks after your antibiotic prescription is complete; talk to your doctor about what dosage is right for you. According to Culturelle, you should take it along with antibiotics to improve gut flora and it works safely with most prescription medications for infection.
Concerns
If you are taking antibiotics, follow the directions as prescribed and seek the advice of your doctor before taking Culturelle. Your physician can tell you how much Culturelle you can take to ease side effects of antibiotics, as well as how long to continue taking it to restore bacteria in the gut. If your child is taking Culturelle and has severe diarrhea of more than six to eight loose stools per day, either caused by illness or as a side effect of antibiotics, contact your doctor for further guidance on avoiding dehydration.
