How can I counter diarrhea in a 5-year old from AMOXICILLIN-POT CLAVULANATE?
This is an antibiotic for ear infections. My son is on day 3 of 10 of this stuff and already has mild diarrhea. Dr says to finish the medication and does not have any advice other than giving yogurt, which I do, but it doesn’t help. The symptoms of ear infection are gone. Are there any pro-biotic supplements or anti-diarrheal treatment safe for 5-year old kids? Note that my son is big for his age, he weighs 52lb. Thanks!
DO NOT give a 5 year old anti-diarrheal treatment.
The diarrhea is not caused by a virus or bacteria.
Its caused by an aggravation of the stomach lining due to the antibiotics.
You should ask your doctor for a milder antibiotic if it has cleared up. If not, just keep him hydrated and let it run it’s course.
The doctor is right, you need to stick out the antibiotic. It basically kills off the ‘good’ bacteria in the colon and thus diarrhea happens. Make sure he’s hydrated and taking in plenty of fluids so he doesn’t get dehydrated. The yogurt is a good idea. There’s also an OTC medication called Flora-Q that helps replenish the good bacteria. I know that in the hospital we have it in both pill and powder form that is drinkable and looks orange. If not you may be able to dissolve a tablet in some juice or pedialyte or gatorade. You may also be able to give him 1/4 to 1/2 of a chewable Immodium tablet. They taste like mint.
Good luck!
there are pro-biotic things that you can give – yogurt is a good place to start. food with potasium in them (bananas and potatoes) are also helpful with slowing down the GI track