Diarrhea Associated With Antibiotics

Overview

Diarrhea associated with antibiotics refers to increased frequency and volume of passing watery or loose stools after the consumption of antibiotics. Any antibiotic use can lead to diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile, although clindamycin has the highest frequency.

Signs and Symptoms

Watery or loose stools, Abdominal pain, and cramps, Increased bowel movement, Fever, Nausea, Vomiting, Loss of appetite

Common Causes

Overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria

Risk Factors

Prolonged antibiotic use, Taking more than one type of antibiotic, Previous diarrhea associated with antibiotics

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination, Full blood count, Serum electrolytes, Stool toxin test for Clostridium difficile

Treatment and Prevention

Oral or intravenous metronidazole, Oral vancomycin if no response to metronidazole, Fluid replacement

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Information Updated on : Wed Feb 12 2020 16:04:04 GMT+0800 (Malaysia Time)

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