Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that are commonly used to maintain digestive health and overall wellbeing. Antibiotics are a class of medications that are used to treat bacterial infections. While antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections, they can also disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which is why many people take probiotics along with antibiotics to help maintain the balance of these bacteria.

Taking probiotics and antibiotics simultaneously, however, can result in a decrease in the effectiveness of antibiotics, as well as cause other side effects. This is because probiotics and antibiotics work in different ways in the body.

Antibiotics kill harmful bacteria that can cause infections, while probiotics work to replenish beneficial bacteria that may have been destroyed or disrupted by the antibiotics. Taking these two medications together can lead to an overgrowth of probiotics, which can have adverse effects.

The most common side effects of taking probiotics and antibiotics together include:

1. Nausea: Taking probiotics with antibiotics may cause nausea and stomach discomfort. This is because the probiotics can be absorbed into the bloodstream faster than usual, which can cause an upset stomach.

2. Diarrhea: Taking probiotics with antibiotics may also cause diarrhea. This is because the antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can lead to an overgrowth of probiotics.

3. Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to probiotics, which can occur more frequently when taken with antibiotics.

4. Reduced effectiveness of antibiotics: As mentioned earlier, taking probiotics with antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotics. This is because the probiotics can compete with the antibiotics for resources and space in the gut, which can lead to a decrease in the amount of antibiotics that can reach the site of infection.

In summary, taking probiotics and antibiotics simultaneously can cause a range of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics. To ensure the best results and minimize any adverse effects, it is recommended to take probiotics at least two to three hours before or after taking antibiotics.