Probiotics & Medication

At Entegro Health HQ, we are often asked the question:

Can I take Flourish while on medications or other supplements? 

The answer (most of the time) is: YES!

A healthy human gut microbiome is filled with a diverse array of bacteria from many different families. Humans have been consuming fermented foods for thousands of years. We live in community with our friendly bacteria and should therefore not be afraid!

A few things to consider while taking a probiotic supplement:  

The way the body absorbs medicine is dependent on the way it is administered. Injections are taken up by the bloodstream immediately, while a transdermal patch takes much longer to absorb to see the intended effects of the medication. Liquids or dissolvable medications taken under the tongue are nearly immediately absorbed. However, the majority of medications taken at home are taken orally. This requires time as the liquid, capsule, or tablet passes through the GI system. Most medications are absorbed in the small intestine.

Those taking immunosuppressant drugs should check with their healthcare providers prior to taking any supplement. Because of the compromised immune system, infections can occur quickly. Check with your health care provider prior to the consumption of a probiotic. 

DO: 

• Check with your healthcare provider. 
• Take the supplement apart from medication. If you take your medication first thing in the morning, try taking Flourish in the afternoon or right before bed.  Or if you take your medication in the morning and before bed, take Flourish midday.
• Monitor your body’s response for efficacy and side effects of medications and supplements regularly. Generally, supplements should be taken apart from all types of medication to reduce the risk of absorption interactions. 
• Those who are taking immunosuppressants should always check with healthcare providers prior to taking supplements, including probiotics. 

DON’T: 

• Take your medication and supplements together.  
• Take Flourish Original or Flourish Junior at the same time as an antibiotic. The antibiotic is nondiscriminatory and will kill your buddies right away! (Do take Flourish 2 hours before or after the antibiotic.)

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Written by Lorilyn Van Dyke, Entegro Health