Diarrhea Caused by Antibiotics
Alternate Names : Antibiotic-Associated Colitis
What are the treatments for the condition?
The first step is to stop taking the antibiotic. Often this is the only
treatment needed for diarrhea due to irritation. If irritation diarrhea is
mild, the person may be asked to finish taking the antibiotic.
In diarrhea from infection, the antibiotic must be stopped. IV fluids may be
used to treat
dehydration and salt imbalances. A different antibiotic,
usually metronidazole, can be given to kill C. difficile.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Metronidazole can cause stomach upset, nausea, and a metallic taste in the mouth. People should
not drink
alcohol while taking this medicine because the combination may
cause severe abdominal distress and vomiting.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Most people get better as soon as the antibiotic is stopped.
How is the condition monitored?
Diarrhea due to irritation does not usually need to be monitored. The stool
test for the C. difficile toxin can be used to monitor
diarrhea from infection. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to
the healthcare provider.
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