Antacids inhibit Probiotic efficacy

December 2, 2009

Patients are often prescribed probiotics to replenish their system with healthy bacteria in order to improved their digestion and prevent the overgrowth of yeast.  Probiotics encapsulated in enteric coating have a better chance of passing undisturbed through the stomach and reaching the intestines.  We have recently learned that when taken with prescription antacids, the effectiveness of the enteric coating is neutralized.  These antacids change the environment of the stomach, increasing the breakdown of the protective coating.

We regularly presriibe probiotics for patients with gastro-intestinal disorders.  It is our experience that when taken 30 minutes prior to an antacid, the above complications are eliminated.