Pharmacy Daily | Weekly Comment 16 Apr 18: Do you want a probiotic with that?

THIS week's contribution is from Dr Michael Osiecki, Managing Director of Bio Concepts - Antibiotic use is associated with a range of gastrointestinal side effects such as Candida infections and antibiotic associated diarrhoea (AAD).

With an increased prevalence of antibiotic prescriptions and a staggering 35% of patients affected by AAD, there is a clear need for new approaches to prevent patient side effects and reduce the health costs experienced from these complications.

There is ever growing evidence confirming that taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG between antibiotic courses can reduce the incidence of AAD by 50% in both adults and children. In addition, studies have shown that the use of either Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Boulardii), can prevent the growth of unwanted microbes and yeast such as Candida post antibiotic use. It is prudent to note that there are warnings in taking probiotics in patients that are immune compromised, however, studies exploring the prevention of AAD with probiotics have no side effects reported.

With significant clinical evidence indicating that probiotics can alleviate antibiotic side effects, it seems intuitive that a simple solution is staring us in the face. A safe, cost effective and scientifically informed option, that should always go hand in hand. Next time you're prescribed an antibiotic, raise the question: do you want a probiotic with that?