Question:

I have IBS and antibiotics are problematic for me. My Endodontist wants to prescribe an antibiotic. Is there an antibiotic that is effective but easy on my IBS?

Answer:

The type of antibiotic will depend on the type of procedure being done and your particular risk for things such as endocarditis. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin and cephalexin are commonly used for endodontic procedures, and are generally well tolerated. Alternatives such as azithromycin or clarithromycin may cause a little more GI distress than amoxicillin or cephalexin, but are still relatively mild. The degree of distress that you experience will likely depend on the duration of treatment. Many antibiotic regimens are a single dose of antibiotic prior to the procedure. You can inform your endodontist about your IBS, and see if there is an antibiotic you have been on in the past that you have tolerated that is acceptable to him or her. This may become a risk/benefit situation in which you and the endodontist discuss the IBS risks associated with proper antibiotic therapy compared to the risks associated with a surgical infection. 

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Go to the Pharmacy and Medications health topic.