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[Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) ### Follow Us Subscribe # What to know about antibiotic-associated diarrhea  [Medically reviewed]() by [Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() on November 21, 2023 - [How antibiotics cause diarrhea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#how-antibiotics-cause-diarrhea) - [Risk factors](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#risk-factors) - [Symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#symptoms) - [Complications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#complications) - [When to consult a doctor](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#when-to-consult-a-doctor) - [Treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#treatment) - [Foods to avoid](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#foods-to-avoid) - [Prevention](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#prevention) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-diarrhea#summary) Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of taking antibiotics, though it tends to be mild. Sometimes, antibiotics can cause bacterial infection with Clostrioides difficile (C.diff), leading to severe diarrhea. Estimates of how common antibiotic-associated diarrhea vary widely, but a [2020 review](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0958166920300057) suggests a rate of 20 to 35% among children taking antibiotics. A [2018 article](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea) suggests the incidence in adults is 5% to 25%. C. diff infection tends to cause severe symptoms and can even be fatal for some. A person with diarrhea on antibiotics should carefully monitor their symptoms. If symptoms are very severe, a person gets sicker, or the diarrhea worsens, they should contact their doctor. Signs of dehydration, confusion, or weakness are a medical emergency. Read on to learn more about antibiotics and diarrhea. ## [How do antibiotics cause diarrhea?]()  [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fantibiotics-diarrhea&media=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.post.rvohealth.io%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2023%2F08%2Fantibiotic-associated_diarrhea_GettyImages1392793123_Header-1024x575.jpg&description=Antibiotic-associated%20diarrhea%3A%20Symptoms%20and%20treatment "Share on Pinterest") Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez/Getty Images Antibiotics [kill harmful bacteria](https://www.proquest.com/openview/0713b1614703e792ad57398da2cf2946/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=35707), but they can also kill beneficial gut bacteria that support [digestion](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320014/) and nutrient absorption. A [2020 study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0958166920300057) states that antibiotics can change the rate at which the small intestine absorbs water and nutrients. When the digestive tract does not absorb enough water and nutrients or when food moves too quickly through it, then a person has watery, frequent bowel movements. Research suggesting that probiotics may reduce the severity or incidence of antibiotic-related diarrhea supports the idea that disrupting the [gut bacteria](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/307998/) causes diarrhea. For this reason, antibiotics that kill more bacteria classes — broad-spectrum antibiotics — and [using multiple antibiotics](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IDR.S194715) at once may increase the risk of diarrhea. Antibiotics can also lead to infection with a bacteria called C.diff, which is one of the most common causes of serious antibiotic-related diarrhea. ### C. diff As antibiotics can alter the microbial flora — or microorganisms — in the large intestines, a person may be more susceptible to C. diff infection. A primary symptom of infection is very severe diarrhea, which in turn can lead to complications such as [dehydration](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dehydration-and-diarrhea/) and electrolyte imbalances. Annually, [about half a million](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/) Americans develop C. diff infections. Over the last decade, a new strain — called pulsed-field gel electrophoresis type 1 — has caused an increase in the incidence and severity of C. diff infection. Another factor to consider is that [misusing](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/effects-of-drug-abuse/) antibiotics, for example, not following a doctor’s instructions concerning their use can increase the risk of having C. diff infection. Learn more about [C. diff infections.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/172329) ## [Risk factors for antibiotic-associated diarrhea]() Anyone can develop antibiotic-associated diarrhea. The risk may be higher in the following situations when a person is: - taking broad-spectrum antibiotics — examples of broad-spectrum antibiotics that can cause diarrhea [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535443/) [penicillin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/216798/) or macrolides - taking multiple antibiotics at one time - taking [antibiotics along with other drugs](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IDR.S194715) Other factors may increase the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, specifically when C. diff is the underlying cause. ### C.diff risk factors The risk factors for developing C. diff [include](https://www.cdc.gov/cdiff/risk.html): - taking antibiotics longer than a week - being over the age of 65 years - having immune system issues, such as from HIV, AIDS, cancer, or an organ transplant - a recent hospital or nursing home stay - a history of C. diff infection ## [Symptoms]() Antibiotic-related diarrhea can occur shortly after taking antibiotics or up to 2 months later. [The main symptom](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea) is [three or more](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/) watery bowel movements in a day. Some other symptoms a person might notice include: - feeling very weak - [dehydration](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153363) - stomach pain - gas Conversely, when C. diff causes diarrhea, it tends to be more severe. There may also be an overlap in symptoms. ### C.diff symptoms Some signs or symptoms to watch for [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/): - very frequent stools - water or mucus in bowel movements - very intense stomach pain - feeling very sick or weak - [nausea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-nausea-feel-like) - a low fever Learn more about how doctors [diagnose what might be causing diarrhea.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158634) ## [Complications]() Diarrhea can cause dehydration, [unintentional weight loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326417/), and electrolyte imbalances. It is more dangerous in babies, young children, and older people. Complications relating to C. diff tend to be more severe. ### C. diff complications C. diff can cause [the following](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/): - toxic [megacolon](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/toxic-megacolon/), a dangerous inflammation in the colon - [sepsis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/305782) - [peritonitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312552), which is swelling of the abdominal lining - bowel perforation Some cases of C. diff can be fatal. ## [When to contact a doctor]() [Children under 3 months old](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/) with diarrhea need medical care, regardless of the cause. People with a history of C. diff or severely [weakened immune systems](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324930/) should also seek prompt medical care. Otherwise, individuals should seek medical care if: - they have signs of C. diff, such as severe illness or blood diarrhea - they have signs of severe dehydration, such as weakness, [sunken eyes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320134/), or very dry skin - they develop a fever - they feel very sick - diarrhea gets steadily worse ## [Treatment]() People with mild diarrhea [can treat themselves at home](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/) by drinking plenty of fluids. Electrolyte drinks or fruit juice may be helpful, and low fiber foods can help [the stool](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320938/) become firmer. Consuming a [bland diet](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320027/) can also be beneficial. A person can use the “BRAT” acronym to choose foods that include: - bananas - rice, preferably white, which contains less fiber - applesauce - toast When C. diff is the underlying cause, treatment is different. ### C.diff treatment Treatment often requires hospitalization. A person may need isolation to avoid spreading the infection to others. Some interventions a doctor might [recommend include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/): - intravenous fluids that healthcare professionals administer through a vein - antibiotics to treat the infection — usually vancomycin or fidaxomicin - the placement of a nasogastric tube if a person cannot take any liquids or food by mouth - monoclonal antibody therapy — a new, innovative way to treat infection People who test positive for C. diff but have no symptoms typically do not need treatment. Still, they must practice appropriate hygiene to avoid spreading the infection, as C. diff is highly contagious. ## [Foods to avoid]() Generally, a person should avoid eating foods that frequently upset their stomach when using antibiotics. However, most research shows that food is not responsible. Instead, [people should](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea) take antibiotics with food to reduce irritation to the stomach. Probiotics may also have a role, as they reduce the risk of diarrhea. Foods that contain probiotics, such as certain yogurts, may have some benefits. ## [Prevention]() While it is not always possible to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, some strategies that may help [include](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea): - [frequent handwashing](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/) to prevent the spread of C. diff - taking antibiotics with food - taking probiotics or eating probiotic foods - only taking antibiotics when a doctor prescribes them - avoiding multiple antibiotics except when medically necessary - seeking prompt medical care for severe diarrhea ## [Summary]() Antibiotic-related diarrhea usually goes away when a person stops using antibiotics. When it does not, or if the diarrhea is severe, a person could have a dangerous infection requiring prompt medical care. An underlying cause may be infection with C. diff. People who experience diarrhea with antibiotics should remain hydrated and call a doctor about whether to continue the antibiotics. If a person’s symptoms become severe or they become ill, they should seek emergency care. - [Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/infectious_diseases) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today 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.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - Boven A, et al (2019). Clostridioides difficile infection-associated cause-specific and all-cause mortality: A population-based cohort study. <https://www.clinicalmicrobiologyandinfection.com/article/S1198-743X(23)00315-4/fulltext> - Ma H, et al (2022). Combined administration of antibiotics increases the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in critically ill patients. <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/IDR.S194715> - Mada PK, et al. (2023). Clostridioides difficile infection. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/> - Mekonnen SA, et al (2020). Molecular mechanisms of probiotic prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0958166920300057> - Nemeth V, et al (2022). Diarrhea. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/> - Patel P, et al (2023). Antibiotics. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535443/> - Resnik RR. (2018). Antibiotic-associated diarrhea. <https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/antibiotic-associated-diarrhea> - Your risk of C. diff. (2022). <https://www.cdc.gov/cdiff/risk.html> Share this article  [Medically reviewed]() by [Alana Biggers, M.D., MPH]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() on November 21, 2023 ## Latest news - [7 heart-healthy behaviors may help increase longevity after cancer](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7-heart-healthy-behaviors-help-increase-longevity-after-cancer) - [Dancing, reading, and video games could help delay brain aging](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dancing-reading-and-video-games-could-help-delay-brain-aging) - [Supplements that support gut health may also benefit skin health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/supplements-that-support-gut-health-may-also-benefit-skin-health) - [Longevity: Here's how coffee may benefit healthy aging](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/roundup-coffee-and-longevity-3-studies-explore-how-coffee-may-benefit-healthy-aging) - [5 healthy habits may help keep the brain younger, even with chronic pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5-healthy-habits-may-help-keep-the-brain-younger-even-with-chronic-pain) ### Related Coverage - [Can antibiotics cause tiredness?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-antibiotics-make-you-tired?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Angelica Balingit, MD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers) [Tiredness is not a typical side effect of antibiotics. However, some antibiotics can cause fatigue in some people. Learn more here.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-antibiotics-make-you-tired?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-antibiotics-make-you-tired?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Antibiotics and eczema: Is there a link?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-and-eczema-is-there-a-link?utm_source=ReadNext) [This article discusses whether there is a link between antibiotics and the risk of developing eczema.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-and-eczema-is-there-a-link?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antibiotics-and-eczema-is-there-a-link?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. 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