Do antibiotics cause weight loss?

Question

I was quite sick recently and took a strong course of antibiotics. I also noticed that I lost a bit of weight during that time. I'm wondering if antibiotics can sometimes cause weight loss, or if it was just because I wasn't eating much when I was ill.

Harbhajan Singh · Accepted Answer

When you are sick, your body is under stress, which can lead to temporary weight loss. I always make sure to get my blood pressure and routine vitals checked by my doctor during such recovery phases to ensure nothing else is wrong.

Ritu Sharma · Answer

I totally understand how worrying it can be to see the scale drop when you are already feeling sick. It is usually just because the infection and the medicine reduce your appetite or cause mild nausea, so don't panic too much.

Amitav Sen · Answer

It is completely normal to lose a little weight when you are on antibiotics because they can make you lose interest in food or cause a bit of indigestion. Just try to have light meals like khichdi and soup, and your weight will stabilize once you recover.

Deepika Rao · Answer

With my hectic work schedule, getting sick and taking antibiotics definitely messes up my eating cycle, leading to quick weight loss. It is temporary, so just focus on staying hydrated and get back to your normal routine once the doctor clears you.

Karan Malhotra · Answer

The weight loss is mostly water weight and a bit of muscle loss from being inactive and eating less. Once you finish your course and get back to your regular protein intake and light workouts, you will bounce back quickly.

Do antibiotics cause weight loss?

5 answers

Consult a dietary specialist

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