[dllfo]

Here I am again, on strong regimens of Antibiotics for over a month. Lung infection prior to upcoming surgery (Nov 23rd for ruptured bicep tendon).

Question came up about using Probiotics while on Antibiotics. IF Antibiotics kill good and bad bacteria, then conversely speaking, wouldn't Probiotics create (save?) both good and bad bacteria??

Does it really do any good to consume Probiotics while on long term Antibiotics such as
Cefuroxime and then Levaquin for 15 days each -- 1000mg a day? The Cefuroxime did not work on my lung infection this time, so we switched to Levaquin.

I have taken both antibiotics multiple times in the last 3 years. Thanks for your help...Dave

[mrsD]

Well, I think your case is very complex. Levaquin is known to negatively be toxic to the nervous system.

The probiotics replace the good bacteria in the colon only. Not elsewhere. The drugs that kill good bacteria allow pathogens to take over the bowel... they are always present in small numbers and kept in check by the good ones. When the good ones die off, the bad ones then start to grow and take over... C. difficle is the most often cited one.

Here is a site to explain what Levaquin can do to you:
http://www.fqresearch.org/

I realize that resistant lung infections may not respond to other agents, but you should understand the trade off by using Levaquin over and over, as well. Sometimes there is no other choice. But when neuro symptoms arise, at least you will know why, and understand that there may be no resolution to them.
Fluoroquinolones don't have a remedy yet that has been proven.
They also cause tendon ruptures for up to a year after use, so do not stress any joints in any way. (they may rupture anyway, but be careful none the less.)

[dllfo]

mrsD, thank you again.

You are right, my medical situation is complex. I am used to new doctors reviewing my status and history, then saying "Wow, you are a mess." That is a direct quote. I am not offended. Frustrated, but not offended.

I am also on corticosterioids to clear my small airways. My Pulmonologist is one of the best in the country and he is well aware of the side effects. He also reminds the side effects of not being able to breathe has its consequences as well.

I have lost track of how many times they have revived me after I quit breathing (CCHS), but believe me, it is harder on my wife. She can't watch anymore.

But it could always be worse, so I try to look at the bright side of it. I will follow your link and it will probably explain my current bicep problem. Maybe the miracle is that I haven't fell apart before this.

BTW, hear of any new items I can try instead of the Quinine (648mg a day) I now use for nocturnal calf muscle cramps?

Thanks again, you are a real blessing for us...Dave