Shalini Gupta Shalini Gupta Asked 6 months ago

Can antibiotics cause diarrhea and vomiting?

After finishing a course of antibiotics, I've been having quite severe diarrhea and some vomiting too. Is this a normal reaction to antibiotics, or should I be worried?

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5 answers

Rohan Malhotra Rohan Malhotra Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago
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Yes, they absolutely do, it's a standard side effect for many people. Stop taking them on an empty stomach and make sure you ask your doctor to prescribe a probiotic along with the antibiotic course next time. If you can't keep fluids down, go to a clinic immediately.

Ananya Sharma Ananya Sharma Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Yes, this is actually very common because antibiotics kill both good and bad gut bacteria, which completely upsets your stomach. I face this often since my gut is already sensitive due to PCOS. Just be careful, drink lots of ORS, and let your doctor know so they can suggest a probiotic.

Sita Ramachandran Sita Ramachandran Joined Feb 2026 6 months ago

Beta, antibiotics are very strong and heat up the stomach, which can cause loose motions and vomiting. You should have some fresh curd or buttermilk with a pinch of roasted cumin powder to cool your system. But if the vomiting is severe, please do not wait and show your doctor.

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Consult a gastroenterologist

Priyanka Roy Priyanka Roy Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Whenever I take strong antibiotics for any infection, my stomach gets completely upset with loose stools and nausea. I usually have to request my doctor to give me a milder dose or add a gut-soothing medicine to my prescription. It is a very uncomfortable feeling, so I hope you feel better soon.

Nikhil Kapoor Nikhil Kapoor Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Oh god, this happened to me last year and I got so panicky thinking it was a severe allergic reaction or food poisoning! It turns out antibiotics just wiped out my gut flora. Please stay hydrated with coconut water and call your doctor to check if you need to change the medicine.

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