Why doctors advise taking an antacid with leptospirosis medication during the monsoon

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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued updated clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of leptospirosis across all civic-run hospitals and healthcare facilities ahead of the monsoon season, aiming to ensure early detection and prompt treatment of the potentially life-threatening bacterial disease. The protocol provides standardised recommendations for doctors managing suspected and confirmed cases.

While the circular does not mention anything about taking an antacid along with the rest of the medication, gastroenterologists suggest taking one to avoid gastritis or of the stomach lining.

According to them, the commonly prescribed antibiotic doxycycline is broad-spectrum and is used in particular cases to prevent or treat certain infections, especially during outbreaks or among high-risk people. But one of its usual side effects is gastritis, particularly if consumed on an empty stomach or for extended periods of time.

Experts Speak

Dr Gaurav Gupta, consultant, internal medicine, Saifee Hospital
‘Taking PAN 40 along with doxycycline is a proactive measure to minimise the chance of an upset stomach and to make the treatment more comfortable for the patient. Pantoprazole [PAN 40] may help to reduce the acid produced in the stomach, which may minimise some of the symptoms that some may experience during doxycycline therapy, such as acidity, heartburn or stomach discomfort. However, both of the aforementioned drugs should be taken only under medical supervision because not all people need acid-suppressing medicine. In addition to medicine, proper personal hygiene, drinking clean water, avoiding contact with stagnant water, and prompt medical care for any signs or symptoms of illness are essential to prevent monsoon diseases.'

Dr Rishikesh Malokar, gastroenterologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital
‘Taking PAN 40 is not necessary for everyone. But doxycycline is notorious for causing severe gastritis. So, if a patient tends to experience acidity and gastritis, it is better to take that particular pantoprazole along with doxycycline just to prevent the side effects'