Title: Does Taking Antibiotics Lead to Constipation? - eMediHealth
Headings: Is It True That Antibiotics Cause Constipation?
Is It True That Antibiotics Cause Constipation?
In this article:
What Is Constipation?
What Are Antibiotics?
Do Antibiotics Cause Constipation?
Medications That Can Cause Constipation
1. Calcium-channel blockers
2. Anticholinergics
3. Opioids
4. Antispasmodics
5. Antacids
6. Cholestyramine
Studies Supporting the Link Between Medications and Constipation
Primary Vs. Secondary Constipation
Individuals at High Risk of Constipation
Expert Answers (Q&A)
Answered by Dr. Rajan Menghani, DO
Final Word
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Content: Expert Answers (Q&A)
Answered by Dr. Rajan Menghani, DO
What are the side effects of taking antibiotics? Antibiotics can have a wide variety of side effects, ranging from skin rash, nausea, and upset stomach to serious issues such as hearing loss. In rare cases, life-threatening conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (which may cause a fever and a skin rash with blisters) can result. Ask your doctor about the side effects that you may expect when taking antibiotics and make sure to notify your doctor if they become bothersome. If you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling in your tongue, lips, or throat, then seek medical attention or call 911 immediately as these symptoms may indicate a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. It is also important to note that taking unnecessary antibiotics can increase the risk of bacterial resistance. This means that the next time this same antibiotic is given to you, it may not be effective and another antibiotic may be necessary. Therefore, only take antibiotics that are prescribed by your doctor, and do not self-medicate with antibiotics just because they are sitting in your medicine cabinet. What drugs are known to cause constipation? A variety of drugs may cause constipation, but some of the most common culprits are opioid medicines, which are sometimes prescribed for severe pain.