What to know about antibiotic-associated diarrhea

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Antibiotics kill harmful bacteria, but they can also kill beneficial gut bacteria that support digestion and nutrient absorption.

A 2020 study 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 causes diarrhea. For this reason, antibiotics that kill more bacteria classes — broad-spectrum antibiotics — and using multiple antibiotics 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 and electrolyte imbalances.

Annually, about half a million 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 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.

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 penicillin or macrolides
• taking multiple antibiotics at one time
• taking antibiotics along with other drugs

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:

• 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

Antibiotic-related diarrhea can occur shortly after taking antibiotics or up to 2 months later. The main symptom is three or more watery bowel movements in a day.

Some other symptoms a person might notice include:

• feeling very weak
• dehydration
• 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:

• very frequent stools
• water or mucus in bowel movements
• very intense stomach pain
• feeling very sick or weak
• nausea
• a low fever

Learn more about how doctors diagnose what might be causing diarrhea.

Diarrhea can cause dehydration, unintentional weight loss, 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:

• toxic megacolon, a dangerous inflammation in the colon
• sepsis
• peritonitis, which is swelling of the abdominal lining
• bowel perforation

Some cases of C. diff can be fatal.

Children under 3 months old with diarrhea need medical care, regardless of the cause. People with a history of C. diff or severely weakened immune systems 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, or very dry skin
• they develop a fever
• they feel very sick
• diarrhea gets steadily worse

People with mild diarrhea can treat themselves at home by drinking plenty of fluids. Electrolyte drinks or fruit juice may be helpful, and low fiber foods can help the stool become firmer.

Consuming a bland diet 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:

• 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.

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 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.

While it is not always possible to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, some strategies that may help include:

• frequent handwashing 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

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.