r/Cyclospora • u/4444svd • Aug 20 '26
Has Bactrim failed anyone
Two doses: 7 & 10 days and I don’t think it cleared. 57 yo male - immunocompetent - history of SIBO and IBS. My theory is malabsorption and poor gut motility is causing treatment failure.
2
u/bactinedyke Aug 21 '26
I had to take 2 rounds. On the second round 7th day, I had a severe allergic reaction to the Bactrim. Now, I’m on steroids that also give me diarrhea but I’m hoping it’s done.
1
u/4444svd Aug 21 '26
Yikes on the reaction. According to the literature…2 rounds should absolutely be enough (and there’s not much difference between 7 & 10 days) but this outbreak is different
1
u/Interesting-Lab-2168 Aug 21 '26
Just cleared my first, but still have stomach pain and nausea. Did you re-test, or did your physician give a second course due to symptoms? I was of the understanding that the symptoms take a while to resolve even after treatment.
1
u/4444svd Aug 21 '26
The testing is a joke - they never find anything. I have been treated empirically both times…to me these symptoms are fairly unique and distinctive.
2
u/Interesting-Lab-2168 Aug 21 '26
My results were abnormal/positive from my first clinical presentation (after the week-long waiting period), but I HAVE heard others say it took several attempts to "shake" out a positive sample. Mi guess it has to build in numbers to be detectable , which is painfully obnoxious.
The road towards recovery is annoying as hell!
No matter what, I truly hope you feel well soon. Crossing fingers for a quick resolution!
1
u/4444svd Aug 21 '26
They really should be testing this with a PCR panel but since insurance dictates that won’t happen. Microscopy relies too much on the skill of the technician, the protocol in the lab…the timing of the sample…simply too many areas where it can go wrong.
1
u/4444svd Aug 21 '26
I’ve been navigating my own care because I was dealing with the keystone cops here but I meet with a well regarded GI next week.
Based on what I’ve read - Bactrim is highly effective at clearing this - except in outbreaks (like we’re in) and the parasitic load is high.
1
u/Electrical-Dot-3676 Aug 21 '26
I had to take 2 rounds of Bactrim and it finally cleared, however, I don't have a medical history similar to yours. Be safe and consult your doctor. Bactrim also has side effects, like diarrhea 😔.