Q: My child complains of nausea and a stomachache after taking antibiotics. Should I stop the medication?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My child had a high fever, and the doctor diagnosed a swollen throat and prescribed antibiotics. However, after taking the medication, my child complains of feeling like throwing up and having a stomachache. Should I continue giving the antibiotics? Should I stop the medication now and get a different prescription on Monday?
Answer:
It is completely understandable to be worried when your child experiences an upset stomach after taking medication. Gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and stomachaches can sometimes occur with antibiotics.
Things to observe at home:
• Check if your child is actually vomiting or just experiencing nausea.
• Assess the severity of the stomachache (e.g., do they cry in pain when you gently press their stomach, or are they still able to play and do daily activities?).
• Make sure they are urinating well to rule out dehydration.
• Note whether the antibiotics were given on an empty stomach or with a meal.
What you can do right now:
• Do not stop the antibiotics on your own. Stopping antibiotics arbitrarily can lead to antibiotic resistance. Please consult the prescribing doctor before making any changes.
• For the next dose, try giving the medication immediately after a meal rather than on an empty stomach, and have your child drink plenty of water.
• Offer light, easy-to-digest foods like porridge, bananas, or toast in small, frequent amounts.
• Encourage your child to take a small sip of water every 5 to 10 minutes to stay hydrated.
When to seek immediate medical care:
Please bring your child to an emergency room or a clinic immediately if you notice any of the following warning signs:
• Repeated vomiting or no urination for more than 8 hours.
• Severe abdominal pain, or if the child's stomach feels hard and rigid to the touch.
• Bloody stools, a persistent high fever, or if the child becomes extremely lethargic and unresponsive.
Next steps regarding the antibiotics:
Please contact your pediatrician's office first to discuss the symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dose adjustments or switching medications. Try giving the medication with food today, but if the symptoms worsen after the next dose, please visit a clinic for an in-person evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
