Probiotics: When to Take Them & How to Track Them
Also called: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces boulardii
By MagdaLast updated
What is Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, mostly bacteria and some yeasts, that are intended to benefit health. They are found in yogurt and other fermented foods and sold as capsules, powders and drinks. Common types include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii. Research suggests some strains may help with certain problems, such as diarrhea linked to antibiotics, but for many conditions the evidence is mixed and it is often unclear which strain or dose works. If you take a probiotic during a course of antibiotics, keeping the two schedules straight is the main tracking challenge.
When to take Probiotics: general timing information
Some strains, such as LGG and Saccharomyces boulardii, might help reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea, with the best results when started within 2 days of the first antibiotic dose. [1]
Antibiotics and antifungal medicines might reduce the effectiveness of some probiotics. Ask your pharmacist how to time the two. [1]
In healthy people probiotics may cause gas, but people who are seriously ill or have weakened immune systems face a higher risk of infection and should talk to a clinician first. [2]
Benefits depend more on the specific strains in a product than on the number of colony-forming units (CFUs). [1]
How to set a Probiotics reminder in Pillzy
Tap + in Pillzy and add your probiotic with the strain name from the label.
If you are taking it alongside antibiotics, add the antibiotic too, so both schedules sit in the same view.
Choose Once daily and set the time your pharmacist suggested relative to the antibiotic.
Add a note about any gas or stomach changes during the first weeks.
Mark each dose taken and stop the reminder when your course ends.
Frequently asked questions
Should I take probiotics with antibiotics?
The NIH notes that some strains might lower the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, but antibiotics might also reduce how well some probiotics work. Ask your pharmacist whether a probiotic suits your course and how far apart to take them.
Are probiotics safe for everyone?
Probiotics have a long history of apparently safe use in healthy people. The NIH warns that people who are seriously ill, have weakened immune systems, and preterm infants face a higher risk of infections, so they should only use probiotics with medical advice.