Diverticulitis Antibiotics - What Antibiotics Are Used for Diverticulitis

An estimated 33% to 66% of people will develop diverticulitis at some point [1]. This condition may sound scary and debilitating, but don’t worry - Most people can fully recover with the help of diverticulitis antibiotics and simple management strategies. 

The Use of Antibiotics To Treat Diverticulitis 

Diverticulitis develops when the colonic wall weakens and bulges outward, creating sac-like pouches. These pockets can get infected with bacteria and swell. The severity of this colon infection can range from mild to severe. People with severe infections may develop abscesses or colon ruptures [1].

Healthcare providers typically use oral or IV antibiotics to treat diverticulitis. These medications can eliminate harmful bacteria and allow the colon to heal [1].

What antibiotics are used for diverticulitis? Here are a few commonly prescribed medications:

• Amoxicillin [2] 
• Augmentin
• Ciprofloxacin 
• Doxycycline 
• Flagyl 

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The best antibiotic for diverticulitis varies based on several factors, including drug allergies and the severity of infection. A healthcare provider can determine the right treatment. 

Specific Antibiotics, Uses, and Considerations 

Diverticulitis antibiotics have varying mechanisms and side effects. Understanding the differences between these medications can help you work with your doctor to choose a suitable antibiotic. 

Amoxicillin for Diverticulitis

Amoxicillin is a commonly prescribed bactericidal B-lactam (beta-lactam) antibiotic. This medication eliminates bacteria by preventing them from producing an enzyme that maintains cell wall structures. It kills gram-positive and -negative bacteria, either of which can cause diverticulitis [3].

Is amoxicillin a good antibiotic for diverticulitis? A recent animal study suggests that this medication can effectively treat this disease. The affected rats had less inflammation and decreased bacteria levels in the colon after receiving amoxicillin. They also had improved appetites, digestion, and nutrition absorption [2].

Like all drugs, amoxicillin can cause side effects, such as [3]:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash 
• Agitation or anxiety

Augmentin for Diverticulitis

Augmentin combines amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. The second ingredient prevents bacteria from creating enzymes called beta-lactamases. These enzymes can make the bacteria resistant to amoxicillin and similar antibiotics. Augmentin takes away this resistance so the amoxicillin can kill the bacteria [4].

 A 2021 study recommends using Augmentin for diverticulosis because it has fewer adverse effects than metronidazole with fluoroquinolone [5].

Potential side effects of Augmentin include [4]:

• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain 
• Rash 
• Higher risk of secondary C. difficile colitis 

Ciprofloxacin for Diverticulitis

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that stops bacteria from replicating. It can eliminate gram-negative bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella [6].

Cipro has a similar level of effectiveness as Augmentin for diverticulosis. However, patients who receive fluoroquinolone have a higher risk of developing a C. difficile infection within one year of treatment. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration recommends clinicians only use Cipro for diverticulosis after exhausting other, safer treatment options. [5].

Cipro has several possible side effects, such as [6]:

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea
• Prolonged QT interval or irregular heart rhythm
• Liver damage 
• Tendon rupture 
• Photosensitivity 

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