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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Do Antibiotics Weaken The Immune System Of Children ?

My children have PTB. They were diagnosed last week. The pediatrician has prescribed us to give them anti-biotics. I m worried because taking antibiotics will surely weaken their immune system. Please advice us what should be their proper diet .
Thu, 12 Jan 2012
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Pediatrician 's  Response
Dear Adelyn
I think you are talking of Pulmonary Tuberculosis(PTB). Nothing to be panicky about it. Treatment with anti TB drugs needs to be continued for minimum of 6 months giving proper dosage and with religious punctuality. Now coming to your apprehension about weakening of immune system. Let me point out that it is the disease, which if left untreated or incompletely treated, will cause more damage than the anti TB medicines. Given in proper dosage and under the guidance of an expert, preferably a Pediatrician, the treatment is quite safe and curative. However do get the children's blood cell count and liver function tests every 1-2 monthly during the course of treatment.If your doctor has prescribed Ethambutol, then you must have your children examined by an ophthalmologist once a month. You should definitely give them good high protein diet supplemented by vitamins.
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Do Antibiotics Weaken The Immune System Of Children ?

Dear Adelyn I think you are talking of Pulmonary Tuberculosis(PTB). Nothing to be panicky about it. Treatment with anti TB drugs needs to be continued for minimum of 6 months giving proper dosage and with religious punctuality. Now coming to your apprehension about weakening of immune system. Let me point out that it is the disease, which if left untreated or incompletely treated, will cause more damage than the anti TB medicines. Given in proper dosage and under the guidance of an expert, preferably a Pediatrician, the treatment is quite safe and curative. However do get the children s blood cell count and liver function tests every 1-2 monthly during the course of treatment.If your doctor has prescribed Ethambutol, then you must have your children examined by an ophthalmologist once a month. You should definitely give them good high protein diet supplemented by vitamins.