From the FDA Drug Label
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea: Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including nitrofurantoin, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Gastrointestinal: Nausea, emesis, and anorexia occur most often. Abdominal pain and diarrhea are less common gastrointestinal reactions.
Yes, nitrofurantoin can cause diarrhea, as it is listed as a potential gastrointestinal reaction in the drug label 1 and 1. The severity of diarrhea can range from mild to fatal colitis. It is essential to monitor patients for signs of diarrhea and take appropriate measures if it occurs.
From the Research
Yes, nitrofurantoin can cause diarrhea as a side effect, although the most common gastrointestinal side effects reported are nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea is one of the potential gastrointestinal side effects associated with this antibiotic, which is primarily used to treat urinary tract infections. Other digestive system side effects may include abdominal pain. These gastrointestinal effects occur because nitrofurantoin, like many antibiotics, can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the gut as it works to fight infection.
Key Points to Consider
- If you experience severe or persistent diarrhea while taking nitrofurantoin, especially if it contains blood or mucus or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or fever, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately as this could indicate a more serious condition called Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Staying well-hydrated while taking nitrofurantoin is important, especially if you develop diarrhea.
- Most cases of antibiotic-associated diarrhea are mild and resolve once the medication is completed.
- According to a study published in 1996 2, the most common adverse reactions associated with the use of nitrofurantoin were nausea and vomiting, but diarrhea was not specifically mentioned as a common side effect in this study.
- Another study from 1990 3 mentioned that the majority of side effects in the nitrofurantoin group derived from gastrointestinal symptoms, but again, diarrhea was not highlighted as a prevalent issue.
- It's essential to note that while nitrofurantoin can cause various side effects, the provided studies do not emphasize diarrhea as a primary concern, but rather as a potential gastrointestinal disturbance.
- The most recent and highest quality study regarding nitrofurantoin's side effects does not specifically focus on diarrhea but highlights the importance of monitoring for any adverse reactions during treatment 2.