Let's talk SIBO

There's been a few threads here and there over the past few years but it seems that testing for and treating SIBO is gaining steam. Would love to hear about some recent experiences of others.

After steroid-ing my way out of a bad flare a couple months ago, my GI had me in for a hydrogen breath test. Started burping after drinking the solution, so knew right away it'd be positive, and it was. Was prescribed Xifaxin but my insurance denied me despite my GI seeking preapproval. I'm now doing 3x500mg Flagyl for 21 days. In a month I'll meet with my GI's nutritionist to discus FODMAPs.

Not happy (and quite nauseous) to be on so much Flagyl but hoping it helps the bloating and "cures" the SIBO--I'll give it a week and see if I notice a difference. Anyone else being treated for it now?

Oh yes, I taken VSL#3 and Culturelle for years. I'm adding Florastor and continuing the VSL #3 while on the Flagyl.

Id definitely add some things in besides just flagyl, flagyl is not broad spectrum enough. All of Kamakya's advice are worth looking into. My personal fave is Olive leaf Extract along with a modified diet and probiotics. Even adding something like peppermint oil can help. I wouldnt rely solely on flayl.

Thanks, Pluot. My GI suggested holding off on diet change until I run my course of antibiotics. I think mainly to see if they are at all effective for me (Flagyl has not done much for me in past at lower dosages) as well as simplify my elimination diet with FODMAPs--I'd like to be able to accurately identify which groups cause me trouble.

Kamakya, please do update us! Thank you for the recs--I am reading up on the supplements now.

PathogenKiller, yes even my GI agreed the antibiotics aren't enough long term so am looking into those supplements now. Thank you!

@mkl11 : Try a month course of garlic,oregano oil,olive leaf extract,grape seed extract and Biocidin liquid drops .These are relatively safer than Rifaximin. If your condition does not improve then use Rifaximin. Many integrative doctors use 100% biocidin liquid drops.


Rifaximin is the 1st choice for SIBO and only later is flagyl.

PS: I have not used any of these yet and all these information I gathered because my daughter has SIBO test in 10 days. But my integrative doctor had mentioned these once and I was just reading internet for more information.

Post Edited (kamakya) : 5/13/2014 7:00:09 AM (GMT-6)

All inclusive guide to curing SIBO that was very beneficial to me. Two paradigms: [RS fiber + NSP fiber + SBO probiotic] versus [SAD + antibiotics + parasites/pathogen enteric infections]. The latter just causes the SIBO to regrow.

Best.