From the FDA Drug Label
Gastrointestinal: ... enterocolitis, and hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis The overall incidence of adverse reactions, and in particular diarrhea, increased with the higher recommended dose Other less frequently reported adverse reactions (<1%) include: Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, and headache. Gastrointestinal: Indigestion, gastritis, stomatitis, glossitis, black “hairy” tongue, mucocutaneous candidiasis, enterocolitis, and hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis
Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) can cause gastrointestinal adverse reactions, including diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis. Bloody stool is not explicitly mentioned, but hemorrhagic/pseudomembranous colitis can be associated with bloody stools. Therefore, it can be inferred that augmentin may cause bloody stool, although it is not directly stated in the label 1.
From the Research
Yes, Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulanate) can potentially cause bloody stools in some patients, which is a serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention. This complication may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis, including Clostridioides difficile infection, or gastrointestinal bleeding, as antibiotics like Augmentin can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the intestines, allowing harmful bacteria to overgrow 2. Other symptoms that might accompany bloody stools include severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, and fever.
Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis
The clinical presentation of antibiotic-associated bloody diarrhea can vary, and it is essential to consider this condition in patients who develop bloody stools after taking Augmentin. According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, community-acquired antibiotic-associated bloody diarrhea is not uncommon in infants, and it can present with acute or chronic forms, even without fever or leukocytosis 2.
Management and Treatment
If you experience bloody stools while taking Augmentin, stop taking the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care. Do not attempt to treat this symptom on your own. Your doctor may need to prescribe different antibiotics or additional medications to address the underlying cause of the bleeding. It is crucial to be aware of this potential serious side effect, especially since Augmentin is generally safe and effective for treating bacterial infections 3, 4.
Prevention and Awareness
To minimize the risk of antibiotic-associated complications, including bloody stools, it is essential to use antibiotics judiciously and only when necessary. As highlighted in a study published in the Medical Journal of Australia, the hepatotoxic potential of Augmentin should not be overlooked, and clinicians should be aware of the potential for delayed but serious and protracted hepatic illness 5. By being informed about the potential risks and benefits of Augmentin, patients and healthcare providers can work together to ensure safe and effective treatment of bacterial infections.