Flagyl for SiBO?

For SIBO  I was prescribed Xifaximin, which made such a minimal difference that I stopped using it. It is $$$$, yep that much. The only thing that worked for me was the low  Fodmap  diet. It takes some getting used to, but when it works it's very gratifying. As for taking probiotic at the same time as an antibiotic, this is doable so long as you space the probiotic between antibiotics. My S I BO was so bad that I couldn't even take probiotics until months after my system had calmEd down.  

 I'm two weeks out from the K pouch surgery and can eat many foods, so long as they are soft. It's a whole new world for me, but I suspect I'll go back to the restrictions once the cathera is removed in two weeks.  Good luck, Janet

That is a good Flagyl dose. High enough to work, but not so high to cause a lot of side effects. I never found probiotics useful while on antibiotics. But others would disagree.

I also deal with SIBO symptoms. Xifaxin did not do much. Cipro or Flagyl work for me. Been dealing with it for about a year and can't stay off antibiotics for more than a week or so. So don't kid yourself that this will resolve within 3 weeks. If you are lucky, maybe, but don't be surprised if it persists.

Jan

Hi Jan,

     No, I am not expecting a magic cure. A few have posted that the gas comes back after stopping the drug. And a few say it does not return. If it does persist, I may try the diet.

    And too, I could try taking Flagyl for a few weeks. Then rest the pouch for a week or so, and return to the drug. Or, maybe try a stronger dose or try a stronger med.

Thanks...

Well, it is not a matter of a *stronger* med, but the right med. Higher doses of Flagyl, especially longer term, greatly increases the risks of side effects like neuropathy. 

I have been alternating low dose Cipro and Flagyl with good results. I tried a month of Xifaxin, but it did not work too well.

Jan

Hi Jan,

I just started the Flagyl. Well, yesterday. We shall see. I agree, I would never

take a higher dose for long term. I don't need any neuropathies.

     Would it be OK if I took a bit of Pepto while on the Flagyl? Flagyl seems to

give me a bit of upset stomach. And too, should I stop my probiotics? ( I take

1 Culturelle in the mornings. )

     What dose of Cipro and Flagyl are you taking? What alternating 

schedule are you on?

     By the way, how long should it take for me to experience any positive effects from the Flagyl? ( That is, if there are any.)

     Thanks! John

Should always take antibiotics (flagyl) with food.

Ray

have you considered the lowFODMAP diet?  i've posted info on this forum.  it changed my life.  difficult diet at first, but also consider it is only for 6-8 weeks, after which time you start re-introducing foods.  if it works you will know within the first week.  janet