 |
|
|
|
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ANTIBIOTIC THERAPY 4. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM USING ANTIBIOTICS? The tetracycline antibiotics taken in low dose, intermittent fashion, can be used indefinitely without the build-up of tolerance to the drug and without the serious side effects of conventional drugs. However, as with all medications, side effects may be encountered. There have been some reports of dizziness when starting the Minocin that may be due to starting at too high a dose. This usually abates with time; however, it should be reported to your physician. Temporarily reducing the dosage of the Minocin may eliminate the dizziness. The antibiotics can cause yeast infections, as do NSAIDS, steroids, methotrexate and the other drugs prescribed for these diseases. These drugs kill off the necessary good bacteria in the intestinal tract. Before starting this therapy, patients should be tested for candida immune-complexes, and if found, appropriate treatment should be prescribed. Conventional therapy would include anti-fungals such as Nystatin or Diflucan. Natural therapies would include diet, olive leaf extract along with slippery elm, L glutamine, and grapefruit seed extract. [See Section 13 for list of laboratories testing for candida immune-complexes.] Reliable brands of olive leaf extract would include: Seagate Products - www.seagateproducts.com - 1-888-505-4283 It is extremely important that patients take a good probiotic while
on this therapy in sufficient quantity to replace the good bacteria
destroyed by these drugs. Effective products include - Diarrhea is listed as a side effect, especially with the clindamycin, but this has not been encountered at the dosage used in this therapy. Some patients' stomachs have become sensitized from medications prior to starting this therapy and may experience nausea. Taking the drug with food (no dairy products) may help. It has also been found helpful to start with a reduced dosage - 50 mg. once or twice a week for up to several months, gradually increasing to the recommended dose. Taking three or four ounces of a pharmaceutical grade aloe vera shortly after taking the antibiotic may be helpful for the nausea. It is recommended that patients avoid direct sunlight while on these antibiotics.
|