Augmentin is a prescription antibiotic medication. As can happen with other antibiotics, when Augmentin is taken for long periods, it can cause a bacteria imbalance in your digestive system. The gastrointestinal imbalance can prevent you from being able to properly digest certain foods. Taking probiotics may help restore the bacterial balance in your intestines. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms while on antibiotics, consult your physician.
Augmentin
Augmentin is a drug containing the antibiotics amoxicillin and clavulanate. Augmentin is a member of a class of antibiotics called penicillins. Your doctor may prescribe Augmentin to treat infections in your sinuses, lungs, ears, respiratory system, urinary tract and skin. Augmentin, especially if taken long-term, may cause liver problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease.
Food Intolerance
Bacteria that naturally exist in your intestines participate in the digestion of food and metabolism of nutrients. Antibiotics, such as Augmentin, can deplete the levels of good bacteria in your intestines. The result of this is an increased risk of contracting fungi or bacterial infections and other gastrointestinal problems such as frequent diarrhea. You may experience more severe gastrointestinal problems with certain foods; this can be considered a food intolerance in that you are unable to properly digest certain foods. It would not be considered an intolerance if certain foods actually cause an allergy-like reaction in your digestive system.
Long-Term Antibiotics
You may take antibiotics in the long-term for persistent infection, as an immune modulator in immune-related diseases, or for other purposes as determined by your doctor. Though the family of tetracycline antibiotics has been used safely long-term, extended use of Augmentin is likely harmful. You may wish to discuss alternatives to Augmentin with your doctor, to avoid potential damage to your liver and gastrointestinal system.
Probiotics
Taking probiotics, containing cultures of beneficial bacteria, along with antibiotics can help prevent the gastrointestinal problems that may cause food intolerances. Commonly used probiotics include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Bifidobacteria bifidum and Bifidobacteria infantis. These can be found in dietary supplements, acidophilus milk and yogurt. Take probiotics under your doctor's supervision to avoid populating your gastrointestinal tract with too many good bacteria, throwing your digestive system out of balance in the other direction.
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