I need some advise on the probiotic VSL#3 please. I've had my J-pouch for 24 years and live 200 miles from a doctor who's familiar with pouch issues. I'm seeing a gastrointestinal doctor who I suggested me trying the VSL#3 and he said we'd give it a try. Apparently comes in 3 strengths and he's ordered the stronger one. Also I've been taking one Cipro daily and I'd think that would kill the good bacteria. Any advise would be appreciated.
Scott
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Erm sorry, it's not clear what the question is? What do you want to know? Taking a probiotic at any time is probably considered a good idea. Some doctors don't feel it's necessary, some say it's beneficial, but I'm not aware of any that think it will do any harm.
The requirement to take a probiotic goes up when the body is under stain, taking meds like cipro would certainly qualify. Together they should work quite well. Many people continue to take probiotics all the time to help them stay ahead of the bad bacteria over growth. It may be worth considering.
I take VSL and Cipro, and get good results from both. I try to take them at different times of day.
Thanks for your replies. The main concern I had was taking Cipro and a probiotic both. I'd think the Cipro would kill the good bacteria you're getting out of the probiotic. Also should I be taking one capsule a day or two. It seems that nobody, including the doctors around here have a clue. The only reason I was prescribed the VSL#3 was because I read about it on here and asked my doctor for it. I'll probably head back to Oschner in New Orleans or to UAB in Birmingham to see a doctor who's more knowledgeable about these matters. Both locations are over 200 miles from here though.
VSL capsules are okay compared with most health food store probiotics, but one or two capsules per day is a pretty low dose for preventing pouchitis. I take four double-strength packets daily, which is a high dose, equivalent to 32 capsules daily.
It’s certainly true that Cipro isn’t good for the probiotic bacteria, but it doesn’t kill all of them instantly. It seems like I still get benefit from the VSL, in spite of the Cipro.
I too recently started using VSL and only prescribed one packet a day. My pouchitus is pretty bad and I have finished the cipro. still using canasa though. It looks like maybe I should be using more than one packet a day. Also wondering if anyone has been successful in finding a cheaper way to get it. I paid $85 for mine and it isn't the strongest which I really want to switch too. I thought it was prescription but the pharmacist said it isn't , so very confused on that matter as well. Thanks
VSL #3 DS (double strength) is by prescription only. They may be calling this VSL #3 900 now. The regular strength packets, now called VSL #3 450, have never required a prescription. Some insurance plans cover the prescription-strength product.
A savings card can be found here: http://vsl3ds.com
Good luck!
