Contents
Antibiotics for Travelers' Diarrhea: What Works and What Doesn't?
Published: Dec 08, 2023
Antibiotics can be a game-changer for severe travelers' diarrhea, but when are they really necessary? Here's what you need to know.
When to Use Antibiotics
Antibiotics are typically reserved for severe cases of travelers' diarrhea, especially when symptoms include fever or bloody stools. In most cases, the illness resolves on its own without antibiotics. Using them unnecessarily can lead to resistance and other side effects.
Recommended Antibiotics
Azithromycin is often recommended due to its effectiveness against various pathogens. Rifaximin and rifamycin are alternatives, particularly for cases suspected to be caused by non-invasive E. coli. However, these should not be used for severe symptoms like fever.
Antibiotic Resistance
Resistance to antibiotics, especially fluoroquinolones, is on the rise. This makes choosing the right treatment more important than ever to avoid promoting further resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
For severe cases with symptoms like fever or bloody stools.
Azithromycin is commonly recommended.
Yes, rifaximin and rifamycin for non-invasive cases.
Resistance is increasing, especially with fluoroquinolones.
Key Takeaways
Use antibiotics wisely to treat travelers' diarrhea and minimize resistance.
References
- Tribble DR, Sanders JW, Pang LW, et al. Traveler's diarrhea in Thailand. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 44:338.
- Steffen R, Jiang ZD, Gracias Garcia ML, et al. Rifamycin SV-MMX® for treatment of travellers' diarrhea. J Travel Med 2018; 25.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?