Home remedies for acidity due to antibiotics

Antibiotics can irritate the upper digestive tract or alter the balance of bacteria in the gut. Acidity may come with nausea, indigestion, bloating, loose stools or a metallic taste. The antibiotic itself, the infection being treated and other medicines can all contribute. Symptoms are not proof that the treatment is unsuitable, so do not stop or change the course without speaking with the prescriber.

Take the medicine exactly as directed, including whether it should be taken with food. Choose smaller, simple meals and drink fluids regularly. Remain upright after eating and reduce alcohol, very spicy food, large fatty meals and other items that worsen burning. Ask a pharmacist before using an antacid, alginate or acid-suppressing medicine because some products can interfere with absorption or timing. Do not share leftover antibiotics or add supplements without checking first.

Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or face, wheezing, trouble breathing, collapse or a widespread blistering rash. Contact a clinician promptly for severe or persistent diarrhoea, blood in stool, repeated vomiting, dehydration, severe abdominal pain or yellowing of the skin. If acidity continues after the course, keeps you awake or prevents you taking doses, contact the prescriber rather than self-treating for longer.

Should this antibiotic be taken with food, and how should an antacid be spaced from it? Could another medicine or the infection itself explain my symptoms?