Yellow Stool: Is It Normal After Taking Antihistamines?

Pale yellow stool?

I would like to ask the doctor, my stool has always been more brown in color, but after taking an antihistamine for an allergy yesterday, my stool turned light yellow this morning.
Is this normal? I just had another bowel movement at noon, and it was also light yellow.
Could this be due to the medication? Thank you.

Ryan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/26

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The relationship with the medication is likely minimal; further observation is warranted.

Reply Date: 2021/08/26

More Info

The change in stool color to a yellow or light yellow hue after taking antihistamines can be concerning, but it is not uncommon. Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin), are commonly used to treat allergies and can have various side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances. However, the color of your stool can be influenced by several factors, including diet, hydration, and the medications you are taking.

When you consume antihistamines, they can affect your digestive system in a few ways. One of the side effects of these medications is that they can cause constipation or changes in bowel movements. This can lead to less frequent bowel movements, which may concentrate bile in the intestines, potentially altering the color of your stool. Bile is produced by the liver and is responsible for the brown color of normal stool. If the stool passes through the intestines too quickly, it may not have enough time to absorb the bile, resulting in a lighter color.

In addition to medications, dietary changes can also influence stool color. If you have consumed foods that are high in fat or certain food dyes, this could also lead to a yellowish stool. Foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and certain leafy greens can sometimes cause a change in stool color due to their pigments.
It's also important to consider hydration. Dehydration can lead to more concentrated bile, which may also affect stool color. If you are not drinking enough fluids, this could contribute to the change in color.

While a temporary change in stool color can be normal, it is essential to monitor other symptoms. If you experience additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or if the yellow stool persists for more than a few days, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent changes in stool color can sometimes indicate underlying issues, such as liver problems or malabsorption disorders.

In summary, while a change to yellow stool after taking antihistamines can be normal and may be attributed to the medication, dietary factors, or hydration levels, it is crucial to pay attention to your body. If you have concerns or if the change persists, seeking medical advice is always a prudent approach. Your healthcare provider can help determine if further investigation is needed or if adjustments to your medication or diet are warranted.

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