Drug-Induced Diarrhea

Medication-induced diarrhea is the appearance of liquid or more frequent stools than usual as a reaction to the use of certain drugs. It can arise shortly after starting a medication or after a period of use.

Common symptoms: soft or watery stools, urgency to pass a bowel movement, abdominal cramps and, in some cases, bloating or a general feeling of being unwell.

When should you see a doctor? If the diarrhea is intense or prolonged, there are signs of dehydration, fever, or blood in the stools, especially in children and older adults.

Which specialist treats it? The gastroenterologist, the internist, the infectious disease specialist, or the pediatrician can assess the relationship between the medication and the symptoms. It is important not to stop or change treatments on your own; discussing the situation with a professional allows you to make safe decisions.