Enterovirulent E. Coli (EEC) (cont.)

Initial treatment methods are similar for all of the EEC groups; hydration is the main treatment, both oral and IV (intervenous) hydration. However, additional treatment measures may be needed. If the patient is infected with EHEC, antibiotics are not used unless the patient is septic. Studies have shown that antibiotics in the EHEC group (especially with E. coli 0157:H7) induce bacteria that produce Shiga toxin to increase toxin release and make the disease and complications worse. In addition, investigators suggest that other toxin producing E. coli serovars in other groups (EPEC, ETEC and EIEC) may not be helped by antibiotics since on some rare occasions; they can develop complications similar to those of EHEC.

Although some cases of traveler's diarrhea have been treated with antibiotics (for example, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim [Septra]), in general, antibiotics may reduce symptoms by only about 24/48 hours. EAEC and EAggEC frequently are self-limiting and many of the serovars are resistant to one or more antibiotics. If the decision to use antibiotics in any EEC infection is made, investigators suggest the E. coli serovar causing the infection be tested to determine antibiotic susceptibilities.

The majority of enterovirulent E. coli (EEC) infections are self-limited; they require no treatment except to keep the person well hydrated (oral hydration). This is especially the case for children and the elderly, who may quickly dehydrate during home care. If the person is unable to be stay well hydrated at home, medical care should be sought. Most clinicians warn people not to treat patients at home with any "left-over" antibiotics or over-the-counter drugs such as diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil) because such treatment may make the symptoms worse and cause complications (see complications section below).

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/enterovirulent_e_coli_eec/article.htm