Can I take probiotics with antibiotics?
Ask your doctor or pharmacist first. In studies on antibiotic-associated diarrhea, probiotics were given along with antibiotics, often starting within 2 days of the first antibiotic dose [1][2]. No official source gives a set number of hours between them, and people who are seriously ill or immunocompromised face higher risks from probiotics [1][2].
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What the sources say about probiotics and antibiotics
NIH says antibiotics can disrupt the intestinal microbiome, and up to 30% of patients who use antibiotics have antibiotic-associated diarrhea [1]. Probiotics have been studied for this, and NIH says results depend on the type of antibiotic, the probiotic strain, the user's age and whether they are in hospital [1]. The NIH fact sheet discusses studies of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and Saccharomyces boulardii for this use [1]. NCCIH reports that a 2017 analysis, mostly of hospital patients, raised no general concern about using probiotics along with antibiotics, except for patients who are very weak or have poorly functioning immune systems [2]. NCCIH also lists the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes from probiotic microorganisms to other gut microorganisms as a possible harmful effect [2].
How to time them
No official source gives a set number of hours between a probiotic and an antibiotic dose. In the studies NIH describes, probiotics were started within 2 days of the first antibiotic dose [1], and NCCIH describes studies giving probiotics along with antibiotics [2]. Follow the storage directions on the probiotic label, since some need refrigeration [1]. For how to take the antibiotic itself, ask your pharmacist.
Who should ask a doctor or pharmacist first
NCCIH advises consulting your health care provider before taking a probiotic supplement, especially if you have health problems, and says anyone with a serious underlying condition should be monitored closely [2]. The NHS says to talk to a doctor first if you have an existing health condition or a weakened immune system [3]. Probiotics have been linked to a few cases of bacteria or fungi in the blood, mostly in people who were severely ill or immunocompromised [1]. Severe or fatal infections have been reported in premature infants given probiotics, and the FDA has warned health care providers about this risk [2].
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Questions people ask next
In the studies NIH describes, probiotics were started within 2 days of the first antibiotic dose [1]. No official source sets a rule for you, so ask your doctor or pharmacist.
No official source gives a set length of time to keep taking probiotics after a course of antibiotics.
The sources reviewed here do not say whether an antibiotic kills the microorganisms in a probiotic supplement. The NHS notes that it is not always certain the bacteria in a product survive long enough to reach the gut [3].
The NHS says probiotics are often added to yoghurts [3]. Ask your pharmacist whether your antibiotic can be taken with dairy foods.
Sources
- Probiotics: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
- Probiotics: Usefulness and Safety — NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
- Probiotics — NHS
Educational information, not medical advice, and not a recommendation for you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, combining or changing supplements, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or have a health condition. Supin sells a subscription, not supplements. Last reviewed .