The relationship between antibiotics and weight gain has long been known. Since the 1940s, tetracyclines have been associated with weight gain in human infants and in children. Significant weight gain has also been demonstrated in adults in the wake of antibiotic therapy (Rosenberg IH et al. 1974; Haight TH et al. 1995). Consequently, antibiotics have also been used in humans as adjunctive therapy for malnutrition (Trehan I et al. 2013; Smith MI et al. 2013). Cases of acquired obesity could also be associated with eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori (Lane JA et al. (2011). In contrast, a weight-promoting effect could not be demonstrated for antifungal and antiviral drugs.
It is known that vancomycin leads to decreased gut microbial diversity in adults, with weight gain and acquired obesity (Million M et al 2013; Thuny F et al 2010). Cases of acquired obesity have also been associated with eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori (Lane JA et al (2011).
In animal fattening, the use of antibiotics has been known for a long time. Used were: macrolides, tetracyclines and penicillins.