Do antibiotics make you tired? 4 tips to feel your best

If you’ve ever been prescribed an antibiotic and found yourself feeling more drained than usual, you may have wondered if the medication is making you feel sluggish. So, do antibiotics make you feel tired? Let’s dive in.

While fatigue is not the most common side effect of antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin or azithromycin, some people do notice extra sleepiness, sluggishness or a general sense of low energy while taking these medications. There are a few reasons why this can happen and several ways to manage it.

Understanding how antibiotics affect your body, side effects to watch for and when to reach out to your primary care provider can help you recover from what ails you more comfortably. 

How do antibiotics work?

Antibiotics are medications designed to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, from respiratory illnesses to skin infections, urinary tract infections and more.

Antibiotics work in one of two main ways:

• By eliminating the bacteria directly
• By stopping bacteria from multiplying, so your body’s immune system can finish the job

While they are powerful and effective, antibiotics don’t discriminate between harmful bacteria and beneficial bacteria. This means they can also affect the “good” bacteria that live in your gut and help keep your body in balance. That disruption can lead to side effects that vary from mild digestive changes to, in some cases, feelings of fatigue.

It’s also important to remember that the infection itself plays a role. When your immune system is hard at work, your body may naturally feel weaker or more tired, regardless of the medication you’re taking. 

Common side effects of antibiotics

The side effects of antibiotics can depend on the specific medication, dosage and your overall health. Commonly reported side effects of antibiotics include:

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Changes in taste
• Mild rashes

Occasionally, people may experience headaches, yeast infections or heightened sensitivity to sunlight. Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, severe diarrhea linked to certain bacterial overgrowth or changes in heart rhythm. If you notice anything unusual, it’s always best to check with your doctor.

It’s also important to let your healthcare provider know about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take, as well as any supplements. Certain antibiotics can interact with other treatments, including some allergy medications, blood-thinning drugs, muscle relaxants, antifungal medications, antacids and anti-inflammatory medicines, which may increase the risk of side effects or affect how well your treatment works.

Why do antibiotics make you tired?

Some people notice no change in their energy levels during a course of antibiotics, while others may feel less focused or unusually sleepy. How you respond often depends on a combination of the infection you’re fighting and the way your body processes the medication.

Fatigue or drowsiness can happen for several reasons. Your immune system uses a lot of energy to fight infection. Antibiotics may also disrupt the balance of “good” bacteria in your gut, which can affect digestion and energy production. In some cases, mild allergic responses or interactions with other medications can lead to feelings of low energy.

Most of the time, this tiredness is mild and temporary, but certain symptoms mean you should contact your primary care provider right away. They can help determine whether the fatigue is related to the medication, the infection or another health concern, and help you decide whether adjustments are needed.

Adjusting your daily routine can help reduce risks. For example, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how your body reacts. When possible, take your dose at a time of day when rest is easier, and make sure to stay hydrated and eat balanced meals to help support steady energy.

Keep in mind that alcohol doesn’t mix well with some antibiotics, so it can be helpful to refrain from drinking while you’re taking antibiotics. Combining alcohol and antibiotics can cause uncomfortable side effects and interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.

Reach out to your doctor if you experience:

• Severe tiredness that interferes with daily activities
• Weakness, dizziness or fainting spells
• Rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing
• Persistent diarrhea or stomach pain
• A fever that develops or worsens while on antibiotics

4 tips to feel your best while on antibiotics

Antibiotics play an important role in helping your body fight off bacterial infections, but they work best when paired with healthy habits. Supporting your recovery can also help reduce the impact of possible side effects, including fatigue.

1. Prioritize rest and sleep

Even though antibiotics are working to clear the infection, your body still needs time and energy to repair tissues, restore balance and return to its full strength. Aim for at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. If you feel more tired than usual, allow yourself short naps or breaks during the day. Small changes to your sleep habits, like going to bed earlier or creating a calming bedtime routine, can make a difference.

2. Stay well-hydrated

Water helps transport nutrients, regulate body temperature and flush out waste, all of which are important while your body is recovering. Keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day and try to choose water over caffeinated or sugary drinks, which can sometimes interfere with rest and hydration.

3. Eat balanced, nourishing meals

Because antibiotics can disrupt your gut bacteria, you may notice digestive changes that affect how energized you feel. While your gut typically restores itself over time, you can help support it by eating nutritious foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, lean proteins and whole grains. If your antibiotic is causing mild digestive changes, smaller, more frequent meals may be easier to tolerate.

Some people also choose to include yogurt or fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut or kimchi in their diets during and after antibiotic treatment, as these can provide beneficial bacteria. Always talk with your doctor before making major changes to your diet or adding supplements while on medication.

4. Listen to your body

It’s normal to want to get back to your usual pace, but pushing yourself too hard can slow your recovery. If you feel tired, take it as a signal to slow down. Gentle activities, like walking or stretching, are fine if you feel up to them, but allow yourself the space to fully rest.

By combining your prescribed antibiotic treatment with healthy habits, you can give your body the best chance to heal quickly and comfortably. If fatigue or other side effects are making recovery difficult, reach out to your primary care provider for guidance.