ANTIBIOTIC SIDE EFFECTS
Definition
Antibiotics, whilst lifesaving in an acute infection, are unfortunately associated with a wide range of side effects and can predispose people towards allergy, yeast infection and the development of ‘resistant strains’ of bacteria. The human digestive system plays host to a wide range of bacteria and other organisms, and is severely disrupted by antibiotics, which are non-selective and tend to kill beneficial as well as pathogenic organisms. Treatment should be aimed at reducing the risk of side effects during a course of antibiotics (such as diarrhoea or thrush) and restoring a healthy gut and immune system following the treatment. Some conditions require long-term administration of antibiotics, and therefore supportive treatment may also need to be on an ongoing basis.
Aetiology / Risk Factors
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Repeated courses of antibiotics increase risk of side effects
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Poor diet and imbalanced gut flora make a patient more susceptible to dysbiosis following antibiotic administration
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Using antibiotics in conjunction with other medications may increase risk
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Young children, pregnant women and elderly people are at greater risk of side effects
Symptoms and Signs
Gastrointestinal
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Liver
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A moderate rise in AST and/or ALT has occasionally been noted.