Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Amie:

I am not clear on exactly what advice you are seeking. You say the doctor says you have to keep it up for another seven days, but you don't say exactly what it is you have to keep up. Can it be assumed you are talking about taking bactrim, which, according to a google search, appears to be an antibiotic for an infection?

If so, according to the Internet information, it appears Bactrim may be a sulfer-based drug, which is one of the worst things for IBS people.

If you are taking Bactrim, my recommendations are as follows:

1. Ask your doctor if Bactrim is a sulfer drug. If it is, ask him/her if you could switch Bactrim to a non-sulfer drug that would be easier on your gut. Tell your doctor sulfer is the worst thing for IBS people.

2. Whether or not you continue to take Bactrim, or another antibiotic, I suggest you take each dose with a glass or two of water (assuming the medication allows this) to wash it through your gut as quickly as possible. This will help reduce the IBS misery for you.

3. Also, if the medication allows, consume some soluble fibre (white French bread, white rice or plain mashed potatoes) before and/or after taking the antibiotic.

I haven't had to take an antibiotic for an infection in quite a few years now. When I do, I have to book off work for the entire course of the antibiotic because of problems with D. The only exception is the medication I take for urinary tract infections (Noroxin). For some reason I have no problem with Noroxin whatsoever.

Hope this helps.

Belinda

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