What effect do antibiotics have on intestinal flora?

During the winter season the use of antibiotics is intensified which, in case of bacterial infections, they act on different pathogens responsible for the disease, counteracting the negative action. However, if on the one hand exert their action against bacteria responsible for the infection, other organisms also attack the “good” that regulate and maintain the balance of intestinal microflora.

Taking antibiotics, therefore, can lead to dysbiosis: These drugs perform their bactericidal action without being able to recognize “good” bacteria than pathogens. The people most at risk of dysbiosis are certainly those with a more sensitive intestinal flora, such as children, who have not reached an optimal age yet and older, because as we age there is a decrease of the species ‘good’ and an increase of the species” bad”, making the intestine Elder more sensitive.

Therefore, antibiotic therapy should be associated with the use of probiotics that help restore normal levels of good microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, balancing the intestinal flora.

The advice and suggestions provided through this service do not address to a problem of medical nature; it is only indicative and does not consider any particular situation. The advice and the answers provided are not a substitute in any way medical advice which should always be consulted for any questions or needs.