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What Can Cause Dark Stools After Taking Cipro And Metronidazole For Cold And Flu?

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Posted on Wed, 22 Aug 2018
Question: Have had cold and flu recovering but plagued with constant nausea. Started Cipro and metronidazole for what I thought was a possible divisive flare up. Now 4 days into meds I have black diarrhea , second day. No real pain or cramping. Urine seems darker than usual
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Answered by Dr. Ornela Ademovi (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Medication side effects.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I understand your concern. First of all, it is not clear to me why you are taking antibiotics. Cold and flu are usually caused by viruses and do not need to be treated with antibiotics. Did your doctor prescribe them and why?

Diarrhea is a common side effect of both Cipro and Metronidazole. Cipro may cause bloody diarrhea which would appear red, not black. Black stools are an indication of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from the food pipe or the stomach, so I recommend you see a doctor in person for further investigation.

I hope this helps.

Wishing you good health and all the best.

Take care.

Dr. Ornela Ademovi, General & Family Physician
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Ornela Ademovi

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 725 Questions

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What Can Cause Dark Stools After Taking Cipro And Metronidazole For Cold And Flu?

Brief Answer: Medication side effects. Detailed Answer: Hello, I understand your concern. First of all, it is not clear to me why you are taking antibiotics. Cold and flu are usually caused by viruses and do not need to be treated with antibiotics. Did your doctor prescribe them and why? Diarrhea is a common side effect of both Cipro and Metronidazole. Cipro may cause bloody diarrhea which would appear red, not black. Black stools are an indication of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as from the food pipe or the stomach, so I recommend you see a doctor in person for further investigation. I hope this helps. Wishing you good health and all the best. Take care. Dr. Ornela Ademovi, General & Family Physician