People sometimes get diarrhea and this is a common occurrence that shouldn't be a cause of alarm since it usually last a few days. Still, it is important to know the different medications to relive and prevent diarrhea. Diarrhea medicine comes in two types that would aid your digestive system problems. One form of drug comes from the doctor's prescription while the other you can purchase at the drug store's over the counter.
The difference between the two is that over the counter drugs don't need any prescription from the doctor. The types of OTC drugs that can help alleviate your diarrhea are called anti-diarrheal medicines. Loperamide and bismuth subsalicylate are the two kinds of over the counter diarrhea medications. Bismuth subsalicylate is an antiemetic drug that treats upset stomach.
How do these diarrhea medicines work?
Loperamide reduces intestinal activities and as a result, the infection would stay a little longer in the body allowing more water to be absorbed out of the stools. On the other hand, Bismuth Subsalicylate balances the movement of fluid through your intestines to lessen inflammation and prevent viruses and bacteria to grow in the stomach and intestines.
Common side effects of diarrhea medicine:
There are times wherein elderly citizens and people who have health issues tend to have a negative reaction due to the side effects brought about by diarrheal medicines. If symptoms persist and you feel the side effects, then it's time to give your doctor a call.
The side effect of loperamide includes abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness and constipation.
For bismuth subsalicylate, the side effects are constipation, the ears have a ringing sound, and blackened stools and or tongue.
It is always advisable to consult a doctor before taking any diarrhea medicine. This is because some anti-diarrheal medicines can even worsen your condition, especially if your diarrhea is a symptom caused by a bacterial or parasitical infection. Sometimes the doctor would prescribe antibiotics so the OTC medications would not suffice. Doctors would utilize a different kind of drug, antispasmodics if your diarrhea is due to IBS.
Finally, if you have children below 7 years old experiencing diarrhea, consult a doctor first before dispensing any diarrhea medicine. Ask a physician first if you want to dispense diarrhea medicine to minors. If you are allergic to loperamide, stay away from it to prevent further complications.
By Current Health Articles
Posted in: Diarrhea