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Nov 06, 2025

Antibiotics and Ostomies: Seeking Advice and Experiences

This topic is about managing an ileostomy while dealing with long-term antibiotic use. The person sharing their experience has a congenital immunodeficiency and requires regular IVIG infusions, along with antibiotics to manage recurrent infections. They are seeking advice on handling the challenges that come with this, such as loose output and dehydration. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Loose or high output is a common side effect of antibiotics. Some people experience very watery or foamy output. It's important to monitor your fluid and electrolyte levels closely.

2. IV antibiotics can increase high output and may lead to low blood sugar. Staying well-hydrated is crucial to protect your kidneys.

3. If you experience increased output, taking Imodium (loperamide) at night can help reduce the number of times you need to empty your pouch. Some find it more effective than taking it during the day.

4. Soluble fiber supplements can have different effects. Metamucil (psyllium) worsened output for some, while Benefiber was gentler. It's best to introduce these slowly and see how your body reacts.

5. Repeated antibiotic use can lead to yeast infections under the wafer/barrier. Oral Fluconazole may be needed when starting antibiotics for UTIs.

6. Taste disturbances and nausea are common but minor complaints. Taking antibiotics with food and spacing out doses might help.

7. Long-term gastric upset from antibiotics for Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) was reported, but symptoms improved after stopping the antibiotics.

8. One person found that very loose output improved with short courses of Amoxicillin, and long-term control was achieved with Alosetron, though it can cause constipation.

9. Sucraid (oral sucrase) helped relieve gas for one user but caused an allergic rash. It's important to monitor for side effects and check insurance coverage due to its high cost.

10. High-output episodes caused by bulk-forming fiber like Metamucil were resolved by stopping the fiber and adding Imodium.

11. Some people on long-term antibiotics noticed no change in stoma function, showing that individual experiences can vary.

12. Repeated IV antibiotic courses left one person feeling very weak after hospital pneumonia. They now focus on vaccinations and avoiding crowds to prevent infections.

13. It's important to advocate for yourself with healthcare providers. Push for cultures before starting prolonged IV therapy, question the need for midline placement, and insist on clear treatment goals and durations to avoid unnecessary exposure.
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