Excessive use of certain commonly used antibiotics is linked to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, a progressive nervous system disorder that leads to shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination, says a study. This connection may be explained by their disruptive effects on the gut microbial ecosystem, said the study published in the journal Movement Disorders.
The strongest associations were found for broad spectrum antibiotics and those that act against anaerobic bacteria and fungi. Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease have been associated with a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease.
Exposure to antibiotics has been shown to cause changes in the gut microbiome and their use is associated with an increased risk of several diseases, such as psychiatric disorders and Crohn's disease.
