Yes, antibiotics can cause diarrhea. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of these medications.
Because antibiotics can reduce the healthy bacteria that help regulate the intestinal environment, other microorganisms may grow more easily. This imbalance can lead to more frequent bowel movements or watery diarrhea.
Some antibiotics can also cause other temporary changes in the body. For example, rifampin may turn urine reddish or pink, while penicillin antibiotics such as amoxicillin, ampicillin, dicloxacillin, or benzathine penicillin may make urine smell stronger or unpleasant.