Antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections but can also disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the gut, leading to diarrhea. Dr. Shovana Veshnavi, a Principal Consultant in Internal Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Noida, explains that while diarrhea is a common side effect, discontinuing antibiotics without medical advice can worsen the situation. Stopping early can result in antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat, and may lead to a relapse of the infection. Patients experiencing severe diarrhea, especially with symptoms like fever or blood in stools, should seek immediate medical attention. For mild cases, staying hydrated and consuming probiotics may help. Dr. Veshnavi emphasizes the importance of following prescribed antibiotic regimens and consulting healthcare professionals regarding any side effects.