The libraryGut
Protect Your Gut on Antibiotics
Diarrhea after antibiotics
Also called Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Antibiotic diarrhea, Upset stomach on antibiotics, C. diff
Who it's forA man aged 18 to 45 whose gut goes to pieces on antibiotics.
When to see a doctor
- Call 911 now: vomiting blood, a lot of blood in your poop, a sudden severe belly ache, confusion, or struggling to breathe.
- Call 911 now: a rash, wheeze, tight throat or swelling face on an antibiotic.
- Today: bloody diarrhea or bleeding from your butt, or diarrhea for more than 7 days. In the US, black, tarry poop is 911 or the emergency room.
- Urgent care or your doctor today: any diarrhea while taking, or soon after, antibiotics, so it can be checked for C. diff.
- Today: five or more episodes of diarrhea a day for more than 1 to 2 days, severe belly pain, or a fever that will not go away.
- Today: signs of dehydration, such as dark pee or dizziness on standing, that last after rehydration packets.
- Had C. diff before: tell the prescriber before any antibiotic.
- Never stop an antibiotic early on your own: call the prescriber.
I am not a doctor. This is not medical advice. This is self-education. Every dose on this page is the one a trial or a label used, quoted from it. It is not a prescription. Talk to a physician who has your history before any medicine or supplement. Never stop an antibiotic early without advice. Blood in your poop, a fever or severe pain: see a doctor first.