Best Antibiotics To Treat Diarrhea in 2024

3 Most Common Causes of Diarrhea

When we think of diarrhea, we often associate it simply with an upset stomach. This view, however, doesn't accurately capture the diversity of the condition. Understanding the different types of diarrhea and their causes can provide us with better tools to manage and prevent this common health issue.

Traveler's Diarrhea is particularly common among international commuters, affecting nearly 50% of them. This type of diarrhea is primarily instigated by consuming contaminated food or water. Particularly in regions with poor sanitation standards, travelers can experience abrupt and unstipulated changes in their gut flora balance. It is not to say that such an inconvenience should discourage us from exploring globally diverse culinary avenues. Instead, it means we need to be aware of our surroundings and make informed choices, such as consuming bottled water in places where water quality may be uncertain.

Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea is another prevalent type. It occurs in up to 30% of individuals who take antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota. This showcase should not ultimately dissuade us from taking antibiotics. These medications are often fundamental in curing bacterial infections. We must remember, however, that like all drugs, antibiotics also have side effects. To mitigate the risk of diarrhea, probiotics or other protective measures can be considered under the guidance of medical professionals.

Infectious Diarrhea is caused by numerous bacteria, viruses, or parasites and is typically spread through contaminated food, water, or person-to-person contact. The World Health Organization affirms that it is considerably common, inciting us to emphasize personal hygiene and responsible behavior in public spaces. Restricting the spread of such infections requires collective individual efforts, including simple steps like hand-washing and responsible food handling.

Rifaximin - Best for Traveler's Diarrhea

Rifaximin is one such antibiotic that's expedient for Traveler's diarrhea, commonly caused by noninvasive strains of E. coli. Endorsed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the typical dosage is 200 mg, taken three times a day over three days. This treatment can be remarkably useful for those with planned travels to regions known for frequent occurrences of diarrhea.

Azithromycin - Broad Spectrum Treatment

Azithromycin is another antibiotic capable of handling a broader range of bacterial causes of diarrhea. The NIH recommends a typical dosage of 500 mg, administered once a day for three consecutive days. This firmer coverage against various bacterial strains gives Azithromycin an edge, making it an excellent choice when the bacterial source of the diarrhea is unknown or varied.