Can You Drink Yogurt While Taking Stomach Medications?

Medications and Diet

Hello Doctor, today I visited a gastroenterologist.
The doctor prescribed me 1.
Gaster 20mg tablets (VOKER) for non-ulcer treatment, 2.
Catilon 40mg tablets (intestinal calming), and a pain reliever along with an anti-diarrheal medication.
Today, I only took the first two medications.
I had diarrhea four times the day before yesterday, and my stool was the consistency of sweet potato puree.
Yesterday, I experienced pain in the left side of my abdomen near the navel after breakfast and lunch, but it subsided after passing gas.
For dinner, since I hadn’t had a bowel movement, I drank half a cup of yogurt, which caused pain in the same area, but I did have a bowel movement.
The stool was still in small pieces resembling sweet potato puree, and there wasn’t much of it.
After the bowel movement, the pain went away.
Today, when I saw the doctor, he was unable to determine the cause of my symptoms (the pain is located under my left rib, which I found online seems to be related to the stomach area, just below the chest, about at the level of the navel, and it hurts after eating, radiating to the left side about three finger widths away from the navel).
The doctor prescribed these four medications because I mentioned experiencing a sharp pain in my left chest at night for about three minutes, which also occurred during my visit.
Therefore, he prescribed the pain reliever, but I currently do not have it, so I haven’t taken it.
I also didn’t take the anti-diarrheal medication.
After eating today, the pain in my left abdomen has subsided, but I still feel pain when I stand up and walk, similar to the sensation after running a kilometer, with more pronounced pain on the left side.
I also feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I can’t seem to go when I try.
When sitting, I don’t feel anything.
After drinking water, I have passed gas a few times, which was not foul-smelling, and I have also been burping.
I would like to ask the doctor if it is okay for me to drink yogurt after taking medications 1 and 2? Will it affect the efficacy of the medications? If it is permissible, how long after taking the medications should I wait to drink it? Additionally, can I drink the black sugar Fin probiotic drink after taking the medications? If so, how long after taking the medications should I wait to drink it? I have also been taking yellow leaf extract; can I take it together with the stomach medications? If I still cannot have a bowel movement tomorrow, can I eat pineapple or similar foods? I read online that it is not suitable for stomach pain.
Thank you, Doctor.

A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/13

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Except for pineapple, which should be avoided in the short term, all other foods are acceptable and will not affect medication.
It is better to have a gap of 20-30 minutes or more.

Reply Date: 2022/06/13

More Info

When it comes to taking medications for stomach issues, such as Gaster (20mg) and Catilon (40mg), it's important to consider how certain foods and drinks may interact with these medications. In your case, you are asking about the consumption of yogurt and a specific probiotic drink (黑松 Fin乳酸菌補給飲料) while on these medications.

Generally speaking, yogurt is a probiotic food that can be beneficial for gut health. It contains live bacteria that can help restore the balance of gut flora, especially after episodes of diarrhea. Since you have been experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and abdominal pain, consuming yogurt may actually be helpful in promoting gut health and improving your digestive function. However, it is advisable to wait at least 20 to 30 minutes after taking your medications before consuming yogurt. This waiting period allows the medications to be absorbed effectively without interference from the yogurt.

As for the black松 Fin probiotic drink, the same principle applies. Probiotic drinks can also aid in digestion and may help alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing. Again, waiting 20 to 30 minutes after taking your medications before consuming this drink is recommended to ensure that the medications work effectively.

Regarding the consumption of other supplements, such as the yellow leaves (葉黃色), it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. Some herbal supplements can interact with medications, either enhancing or diminishing their effects. Therefore, it is best to discuss this with your doctor to ensure safety and efficacy.

If you find yourself unable to have a bowel movement tomorrow, consuming pineapple may be an option. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion and may help with constipation. However, if you are experiencing stomach pain, it is wise to approach this cautiously, as certain foods can exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. It is always best to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider regarding dietary choices, especially when dealing with gastrointestinal issues.

In summary, you can consume yogurt and the black松 Fin probiotic drink while taking your medications, but it is advisable to wait 20 to 30 minutes after taking your medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding any supplements you are considering and be cautious with your diet if you are experiencing ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you are managing your health effectively.

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