In most cases, over-the-counter medication can be helpful in stopping an occasional bout of diarrhea — especially traveler's diarrhea , which may result from ingesting contaminated food or water while abroad.
Over-the-counter options include Imodium loperamide and Pepto-Bismol or Kaopectate bismuth subsalicylate. One thing to keep in mind is that if you take pharmaceutical remedies for traveler's diarrhea, they may make you feel better sooner, but they could keep any bacteria, parasites, or viruses in your system longer.
In most cases, diarrhea will go away on its own within a few days. If the diarrhea persists, talk to your doctor. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. By Beth W. Reviewed: June 22, Bismuth subsalicylate, found in Kaopectate and Pepto-Bismol, is better known for treating stomach upset, but it also works as an antidiarrheal and an anti-inflammatory and it can inhibit the spread of some strains of bacteria that causes diarrhea.
Bismuth subsalicylate works to slow diarrhea by reducing the amount of water entering the bowels. Side effects of Pepto-Bismol include constipation, black stools, or a black tongue. Overdoses of Pepto-Bismol can be dangerous, so only take the prescribed amount and don't double up doses. Diarrhea that goes on for more than a few days or is accompanied by a fever, severe abdominal pain , blood or pus in the stool is a cause to call a physician right away.
Not being able to keep any foods or liquids down is another reason to seek medical attention right away. In most cases, the virus or bacteria will clear the body in a few days, although it might take several more days to feel back to normal. Diarrhea shouldn't be constant, so if it's going on for a long time, it's time to get checked out by a physician and see if there's something else going on. Yes, various antidiarrheal medication options are available over the counter at pharmacies and many grocery stores.
Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate and their generic equivalents are two common products. Alternatively you can try Imodium , which slows intestinal contractions and reduces bouts of diarrhea. Yes, constipation is one side effect of Imodium. Other potential side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Most people don't experience side effects from taking Imodium, but if you are concerned by a potential reaction, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor first. A single dose of Imodium can last for 8 to 12 hours. It takes about half an hour for the medicine to begin working. Gas pain? Stool issues? Sign up for the best tips to take care of your stomach. Merck Manual Professional Version. Updated May Strong SA. Management of acute colitis and toxic megacolon.
Clin Colon Rectal Surg. Pepto Bismol. Last reviewed March 8, How to take Loperamide Imodium. Reviewed in March American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. National Library of Medicine. These medicines may contain aspirin, which is a salicylate. You may get too much salicylate if you take more than one of these medicines at a time. Last Updated: May 18, This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.
Opioids are powerful medicines that treat pain. However, they can be addictive. Your doctor may be able to help…. Doctors do not recommend giving children younger than 6 years old OTC medicines for cough and cold. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. Many things can cause it, including: Viruses. Bacteria and parasites. Medicines such as antibiotics. Lactose intolerance. Fructose or artificial sweeteners. Digestive disorders such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome.
What types of OTC medicines treat diarrhea? Antidiarrheal medicines include: Loperamide 1 brand name: Imodium. Bismuth subsalicylate 2 brand names: Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol. Bismuth subsalicylate can also be used for an upset stomach. How do I safely take OTC antidiarrheal medicines? Taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous. They may have similar active ingredients.
These could add up to be too much medicine. How can I safely store OTC antidiarrheal medicines? Loperamide side effects may include: Abdominal pain. Nausea or vomiting. Bismuth subsalicylate side effects may include: Constipation. Ringing sound in the ear called tinnitus.
Can OTC antidiarrheal medicines cause problems with other medicines I take?
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