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URLhttps://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea
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Meta TitleAntibiotics Diarrhea: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Meta DescriptionWhen you take antibiotics, diarrhea can be a common side effect. This is due to the way antibiotics disrupt the balance of bacteria in your intestines. Learn about self-care remedies and the steps you can take to lower your risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
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Yes, antibiotics can cause diarrhea — and here’s why. Antibiotics target bacteria by taking advantage of structures and processes that bacterial cells have that are different from our own cells. So, while antibiotics don’t harm our own cells, they can kill both good and bad bacteria living in your intestines. Not all bacteria is bad. There are many types of good bacteria that live in your intestines. These good bacteria help with the digestive process and they also play a role in keeping you healthy. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of these bacteria. One of the side effects of killing off the good bacteria, in addition to the bad bacteria, is the possibility of looser stools. Another job that’s done by good bacteria is to keep the growth of opportunistic bacteria in check. These bacteria, such as Clostridium difficile , (known as C. diff for short) can cause infections if they’re allowed to thrive, which can happen if good bacteria are killed off by antibiotics. Toxins produced by C. diff can cause inflammation in the intestines, leading to diarrhea. Studies estimate that up to 17.5 percent of healthy people are colonized with C. diff . This number can increase in healthcare settings, like hospitals.
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Connect with us for all things health. Subscribe # What You Need to Know About Antibiotics and Diarrhea ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Alan-Carter-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Alan Carter, Pharm.D.]() — Written by [Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D.]() — [Updated on March 16, 2023]() - [Diarrhea from antibiotics](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#diarrhea-from-antibiotics) - [Symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#symptoms) - [Which antibiotics?](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#which-antibiotics) - [Foods to eat](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#foods-to-eat) - [Foods to avoid](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#foods-to-avoid) - [Other remedies](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#other-remedies) - [When to seek care](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#when-to-seek-care) - [Prevention](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#prevention) - [Bottom line](https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-diarrhea#bottom-line) Antibiotic-related diarrhea is caused by disrupting the bacterial balance in your intestines. Certain antibiotics are more likely to cause it, such as penicillins and cephalosporins. ![A pharmacist providing advice to a male customer about antibiotics and diarrhea. ](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Pharmicist_Customer_Conversation_1296x728-header-1296x728.jpg?w=1155&h=1528) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fantibiotics-diarrhea&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.healthline.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F11%2FPharmicist_Customer_Conversation_1296x728-header-1296x728.jpg&description=Antibiotics%20Diarrhea%3A%20Causes%2C%20Treatment%2C%20and%20Prevention "Share on Pinterest") Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat bacterial infections. However, sometimes antibiotic treatment can lead to an unpleasant side effect — diarrhea. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is fairly common. It’s estimated that between [5 and 25 percent](https://www.nature.com/articles/sc2016193) of adults may experience diarrhea while taking antibiotics. But what exactly causes this? And can it be prevented? Keep reading as we delve deeper into antibiotic-associated diarrhea, what causes it, and what you can do if it happens to you. ## [Can antibiotics cause diarrhea?]() Yes, antibiotics can cause [diarrhea](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea) — and here’s why. [Antibiotics](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work) target [bacteria](https://www.healthline.com/health/are-bacterial-infections-contagious) by taking advantage of structures and processes that bacterial cells have that are different from our own cells. So, while antibiotics don’t harm our own cells, they can kill both [good and bad bacteria](https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/good-bad-germs) living in your intestines. Not all bacteria is bad. There are many types of [good bacteria](https://www.healthline.com/health/gut-health) that live in your intestines. These good bacteria help with the digestive process and they also play a role in keeping you healthy. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of these bacteria. One of the side effects of killing off the good bacteria, in addition to the bad bacteria, is the possibility of looser stools. Another job that’s done by good bacteria is to keep the growth of opportunistic bacteria in check. These bacteria, such as *[Clostridium difficile](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-c-diff)*, (known as *C. diff* for short) can cause infections if they’re allowed to thrive, which can happen if good bacteria are killed off by antibiotics. Toxins produced by *C. diff* can cause inflammation in the intestines, leading to diarrhea. Studies estimate that [up to 17.5 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5902504/) of healthy people are colonized with *C. diff*. This number can increase in healthcare settings, like hospitals. ## [Symptoms of antibiotic-associated diarrhea]() Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is defined as having loose, watery stools three or more times per day while taking antibiotics. This may begin about a week after starting antibiotics. Additionally, diarrhea can also develop in the weeks after finishing your treatment. If you have a *C. diff* infection, you may experience additional symptoms such as: - abdominal [pain](https://www.healthline.com/health/abdominal-pain) or cramps - low grade [fever](https://www.healthline.com/health/fever-symptoms) - [decreased appetite](https://www.healthline.com/health/appetite-decreased) - [nausea](https://www.healthline.com/health/nausea) ## [Are some antibiotics more likely to cause diarrhea?]() Although all antibiotics can cause diarrhea, some types are more closely associated with the condition. It’s still not completely clear exactly why these antibiotics are more likely to cause diarrhea compared to others. Antibiotics that have a higher likelihood of causing diarrhea include: - penicillins, such as [ampicillin](https://www.healthline.com/health/ampicillin-oral-capsule) and [amoxicillin](https://www.healthline.com/health/amoxicillin-oral-tablet) - [cephalosporins](https://www.healthline.com/health/cephalosporins), such as [cephalexin](https://www.healthline.com/health/cephalexin-oral-capsule) and cefpodoxime - [clindamycin](https://www.healthline.com/health/clindamycin-oral-capsule) ## [What foods should you eat to treat diarrhea?]() If you’re experiencing diarrhea from antibiotics, adjusting your diet may help ease your symptoms. Some general suggestions include: - **Eating low fiber foods.** While high fiber foods are recommended when you’re healthy, eating them when you have diarrhea can make your condition worse. - **Replacing potassium.** This nutrient can be lost due to diarrhea, but eating foods containing [potassium](https://www.healthline.com/health/potassium) may help replace it. - **Replenishing lost fluids and salts.** Diarrhea can cause you to lose fluids and [electrolytes](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/electrolytes) more rapidly, so it’s important to replace these. Based on these suggestions, try to consume the following foods and beverages when you have diarrhea: - **fluids** including water, broths, or decaffeinated tea - **fruit** such as bananas, applesauce, or small amounts of canned fruit without syrup - **grains** such as white rice, white bread, and noodles - **peeled potatoes** (good source of potassium) that have been boiled or baked - **protein** sources like poultry, lean meats, and fish - **yogurt** that contains live cultures ## [What foods should you avoid?]() Some types of food may worsen your symptoms or interfere with your antibiotic treatment. These include: - **alcoholic beverages** - **caffeinated beverages** such as coffee, sodas, and tea - **dairy products** (aside from yogurt), can cause digestive problems while taking antibiotics and may affect antibiotic absorption - **fatty foods** such as fatty meats, baked goods, potato chips, french fries, and other fried foods - **foods or beverages high in added sugar** such as sodas, fruit juices, cakes, and cookies - **high fiber foods** such as whole grains, legumes, and most fruits and vegetables - **spicy foods** that may further irritate your digestive tract Also, try to avoid eating [grapefruit](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/grapefruit-and-medications) or taking calcium supplements. These can both interfere with how well antibiotics are absorbed by your body, and can diminish the effects of the medication. ## [Other self-care remedies]() In addition to adjusting your diet, there are other steps you can take to help ease your symptoms. ### Replace lost fluids Diarrhea can lead to a loss of fluids, putting you at risk for [dehydration](https://www.healthline.com/health/dehydration). Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Broths or fruit juices that are low in sugar can also help prevent fluid loss. If your child has diarrhea, you may want to consider an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte. ### Use anti-diarrheal medications with caution In some cases, [antidiarrheal medications](https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/most-effective-diarrhea-remedies) like [loperamide](https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/most-effective-diarrhea-remedies) ([Imodium](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea/imodium)) may be effective at relieving your symptoms. However, speak to your doctor before using these medications. In some cases, using antidiarrheal medications may slow the time it takes for your body to get rid of toxins in your digestive tract. This can prolong your condition and may put you at risk for complications. ## [When to see a doctor]() Contact your doctor, or go to urgent care, if you’re taking antibiotics and have the following symptoms: - more than five episodes of diarrhea in a day - [blood](https://www.healthline.com/health/bloody-or-tarry-stools) or pus in your stool - fever - abdominal pain or cramps If your diarrhea condition is milder, your doctor may suggest that you stop taking your antibiotic until your diarrhea goes away. Your doctor could also prescribe a different antibiotic that has a lower risk of causing diarrhea. In cases where *C. diff* infection is suspected, your doctor will take you off the antibiotic that you’re on. Instead, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic that targets *C. diff* bacteria, such as vancomycin, fidaxomicin, or [metronidazole](https://www.healthline.com/health/metronidazole-oral-tablet). ## [Are there ways to prevent diarrhea when you take antibiotics?]() There are some steps that you can take to lower your risk of developing antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Some suggestions include: - **Try probiotics.** [Probiotics](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-101) can help add good bacteria back into your digestive system. Some [recent reviews](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5745464/) of scientific literature have found that using probiotics while taking antibiotics can be effective for preventing diarrhea. - **Practice good hygiene.** [Washing your hands](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-should-you-wash-your-hands) frequently, especially after using the bathroom, can help prevent the spread of *C. diff* bacteria. - **Follow medication instructions.** Some antibiotics may say to take with food. Be sure to do this to help prevent digestive irritation. - **Only take antibiotics when needed.** While antibiotics can treat bacterial infections, they’re not effective against viral infections like [colds](https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/cold) and [flu](https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/flu). Overusing antibiotics can negatively impact your digestive health and cause other issues. - **Talk to your doctor.** If you’ve had diarrhea when taking antibiotics before, let your doctor know. They may be able to prescribe an antibiotic that has a lower likelihood of causing this issue. ## [The bottom line]() Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is fairly common. It happens when antibiotics disturb the natural balance of bacteria in your intestines. This can lead to digestive irritation and increase the risk of illness due to some types of harmful bacteria, such as *C. diff*. All types of antibiotics have the potential to cause diarrhea. However, some types of antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, can cause it more frequently. If you have antibiotic-associated diarrhea, focus on eating low fiber foods and replacing lost fluids and nutrients. See your doctor if you have very frequent or severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or fever while taking antibiotics. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - Antibiotics and diarrhea. (2019). <https://www.iffgd.org/lower-gi-disorders/diarrhea/antibiotics-diarrhea.html> - Antibiotic-associated diarrhea. (2019). <https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea-a-to-z> - Barbut F. (2002). Managing antibiotic associated diarrhea. Probiotics may help. DOI: [https://dx.doi.org/10.1136%2Fbmj.324.7350.1345](https://dx.doi.org/10.1136%2Fbmj.324.7350.1345) - Blaabjerg S, et al. (2017). Probiotics for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in outpatients – a systemic review and meta-analysis. DOI: [https://dx.doi.org/10.3390%2Fantibiotics6040021](https://dx.doi.org/10.3390%2Fantibiotics6040021) - Eating hints to help with diarrhea. (2017). <https://www.uwhealth.org/healthfacts/nutrition/323.pdf> - Giannelli FR. (2017). Antibiotic-associated diarrhea. <https://journals.lww.com/jaapa/Citation/2017/10000/Antibiotic_associated_diarrhea.10.aspx> - Guo Q, et al. (2019). Probiotics for the prevention of pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea. DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004827.pub5> - How to prevent diarrhea while you take antibiotics. (2015). <https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-prevent-diarrhea-while-you-take-antibiotics/> - Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019, May 15). Antibiotic-associated diarrhea. <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352231> - Mom’s advice is still the best for treating diarrhea. (2019). <https://health.clevelandclinic.org/moms-advice-is-still-the-best-for-treating-diarrhea/> - Nutrition strategies for managing diarrhea. (2019). <https://www.iffgd.org/lower-gi-disorders/diarrhea/nutrition-strategies.html> - Schaeffler H, et al. (2018). *Clostridium difficile* – from colonization to infection. DOI: [https://dx.doi.org/10.3389%2Ffmicb.2018.00646](https://dx.doi.org/10.3389%2Ffmicb.2018.00646) - Using medication: using antibiotics correctly and avoiding resistance. (2013). <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361005/> - What is an antibiotic? (n.d.). <https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/microbiome/antibiotics/> - Wong S, et al. (2017). Use of antibiotic and prevalence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in patients with spinal cord injuries: a UK national spinal injury centre experience. DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.2016.193> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Alan-Carter-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Alan Carter, Pharm.D.]() — Written by [Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D.]() — [Updated on March 16, 2023]() ### Read this next - [Antibiotics Can Kill Healthy Gut Bacteria: Here’s What to Eat to Counter That](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/antibiotics-can-kill-healthy-gut-bacteria-heres-what-to-eat-to-counter-that?utm_source=ReadNext) [Experts say some antibiotics can kill healthy gut bacteria. They recommend people eat yogurt and other fermented foods while taking the medications.](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/antibiotics-can-kill-healthy-gut-bacteria-heres-what-to-eat-to-counter-that?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/antibiotics-can-kill-healthy-gut-bacteria-heres-what-to-eat-to-counter-that?utm_source=ReadNext) - [How Do Antibiotics Work?](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Alan Carter, Pharm.D.](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Antibiotics are powerful, lifesaving medications used to fight infections caused by bacteria. Learn more here.](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-do-antibiotics-work?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Diarrhea be a Symptom of Pneumonia?](https://www.healthline.com/health/pneumonia/diarrhea-and-pneumonia?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Learn about how diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms can occur if you have pneumonia, or as a result of taking medications for this lung…](https://www.healthline.com/health/pneumonia/diarrhea-and-pneumonia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/pneumonia/diarrhea-and-pneumonia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Is Diarrhea a Symptom of a Concussion?](https://www.healthline.com/health/can-a-concussion-give-you-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [Concussions may cause several types of symptoms that begin immediately or hours to days later. Here's what research shows about the connection between…](https://www.healthline.com/health/can-a-concussion-give-you-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/can-a-concussion-give-you-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) - [When Is Diarrhea a Symptom of a Medical Emergency?](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea/when-to-go-to-hospital-for-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [Diarrhea is often a symptom of a brief illness that you can treat with rest, drinking water, or taking over-the-counter medications. But sometimes, it…](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea/when-to-go-to-hospital-for-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea/when-to-go-to-hospital-for-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Heatstroke Cause Diarrhea?](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea-from-heat-stroke?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Cynthia Taylor Chavoustie, MPAS, PA-C](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Several symptoms distinguish heatstroke from other heat-related illnesses. These include confusion, high body temperature, increased pulse and…](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea-from-heat-stroke?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/diarrhea-from-heat-stroke?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Using a Hot Tub Cause Diarrhea?](https://www.healthline.com/health/hot-tub-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [When kept clean and maintained, hot tubs can be an enjoyable way to relax. 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Here's what you should know.](https://www.healthline.com/health/yellow-c-diff-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/yellow-c-diff-diarrhea?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2025 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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