Probiotic Use During Antibiotic Therapy: Strengthening Provider Practices

Antibiotics are some of the most commonly prescribed medications. However, their use is associated with many side effects, one of which is Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD). AAD is a common yet underreported side effect of antibiotic therapy that often leads to interrupted or premature discontinuation of antibiotic treatment that may result in a possible increase in long-term complications and other health implications related to AAD. The use of probiotics to prevent AAD and their general positive impact on gut and overall health are well-studied and documented. Providers are generally aware of the recommended best practice regarding probiotic prescribing to prevent AAD. However, many providers fail to implement the recommendations into practice. A common theme among providers is a lack of knowledge as to which probiotics to recommend given the vast choices of possible probiotics available, the length of treatment, or the most favorable time frame for probiotic therapy. To reduce AAD occurrence and improve patient adherence with antibiotic therapy, this doctoral project aimed to improve provider probiotic knowledge and prescribing practices in a South Florida urgent care and a primary care setting.