Is it normal to have diarrhea during and then after you have stopped taking antibiotics? i took a course of antibiotics for a week for a sinus infection. during the course of treatment i had moderately severe diarrhea. it has been over a week and a half

One : One of the most common side effects of oral antibiotics is stomach upset and diarrhea. Often, the antibiotic not only fights the "bad" bacteria causing the infection you have, but will also kill off the "good" bacteria in your gut causing discomfort and diarrhea. Some are worse than others. Often, it does take time for that "good" bacteria to grow back, but there are a few symptoms you need to look out for such as: bloody diarrhea, worsening diarrhea, worsening cramps, or fever. In the meantime, eating probiotic foods such as live culture yogurt can help recolonize your gut with "good" bacteria.

No: Antibiotics frequently cause diarrhea. Antibiotics can also cause clostridium difficile colitis which is more serious and needs treatment. If your diarrhea continues you need to have your stool checked for c. Difficile toxin.In the future, taking a probiotic like vsl#3 has been shown to prevent antibiotic associated diarrhea and c.Difficile disease. Good luck. I hope you feel better.