OR
A 29-year-old female asked:
Hi, i was put on 2 antibiotics (flagyl 3x/day & cipro (ciprofloxacin) 2x/day) for possible bacterial overgrowth. do i take it with meals or empty stomach & dose times?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Hunter Handsfieldanswered
Infectious Disease 55 years experience
Doesn't matter: Absorption of these antibiotics is not significantly affected by food. And for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, its equally important for the antibiotics to remain inside the intestine. So it shouldn't make any difference whether you take them with or without meals. However, to be safe it would be best to check with doctor treating you in case s/he has a preference.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 12, 2015
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.