Stop Antibiotic Related Side Effects Dead In Their Tracks: How Probiotics Can Help Restore Good Bacteria

Antibiotics have revolutionised modern medicine by providing effective treatments for bacterial infections,^1a  but they can also cause some unwanted side effects, such as diarrhoea and upset stomach.

Fortunately, probiotics have emerged as a potential solution to mitigate these side effects by restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut.

The History Of Antibiotics

The discovery of antibiotics began in the early 20th century, with the development of the first antibiotic, penicillin, by Alexander Fleming in 1928.^1b This breakthrough led to the mass production of antibiotics during World War II and the post-war era.^1c

Over the years, scientists have discovered and developed many different types of antibiotics, each with unique characteristics and uses. However, like all medications, antibiotics can have side effects that range from mild to severe.²

Understanding why antibiotics can have side effects and how to manage them can help you stay healthy and feel better while taking antibiotics.

Why Antibiotics Can Have Side Effects

Antibiotic side effects occur because of the way antibiotics work.

Antibiotics are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria by targeting specific structures or functions in bacterial cells. However, some antibiotics can also affect human cells, leading to side effects.³

What are the side effects of antibiotics?

The most common side effects of antibiotics include:⁴

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Yeast infections
• Stomach cramps
• Allergic reactions

Ways to reduce antibiotic side effects

Take antibiotics as directed: Taking antibiotics as directed by your healthcare provider can help reduce the risk of side effects. Be sure to take the full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished.^4a,b

Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can interact with some antibiotics, causing side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. Always check with your healthcare provider to see if it is safe to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics.^4c

Speak to your doctor: If you experience any of the following severe side effects of antibiotics, please get in touch with your physician:^4d

• Severe watery diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• White patches on your tongue
• Vaginal itching or discharge
• Allergic reactions, such as a rash, shortness of breath, and swelling of the lips or tongue

Take a probiotic: Antibiotics can often result in soft stools or diarrhoea due to the possibility of eliminating both harmful and beneficial bacteria, thereby disrupting the delicate balance in the gut.^4c

Studies have demonstrated that individuals who incorporate certain probiotics into their routine are 42% less likely to experience diarrhoea compared to those who do not take these beneficial bacteria.^4d

Eat probiotic-rich foods: Probiotic-rich foods, such as yoghurt, contain good bacteria that can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your body. Eating these foods while taking antibiotics can help reduce the risk of side effects.^4e

How Reuterina^® acute Can Help Reduce Antibiotic Side Effects

Reuterina^® acute (10 Chews) is a probiotic dietary supplement containing the patented lactic acid bacterium Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri) Protectis^® (L. reuteri that aids in the restoration of natural gut balance and maintenance of a healthy equilibrium of gut flora during and after antibiotic treatment.⁵

In conclusion, antibiotics are essential medications that can save lives but also have side effects. Reuterina^® acute has been clinically proven, with beneficial effects in various health conditions, including reducing diarrhoea within 24h, the duration of diarrhoea, functional abdominal pain (FAP), antibiotic-associated side effects, lactose intolerance symptoms, and boosting immunity.

The Reuterina^® family of probiotics are available at pharmacies nationwide. For more information, visit: https://reuterina.co.za/ and join the conversations on Instagram and Facebook.

References and product legals available on request. | 025 ZA Reut 022023