Medications to treat diarrhea in adults include over-the-counter remedies, such as loperamide. People with an underlying health condition or infection may need prescription drugs, for instance, rifaximin.
Diarrhea is when stool contains
Diarrhea can be either acute or chronic. Acute diarrhea typically refers to passing at least
Common causes of diarrhea can include:
- traveler’s diarrhea, or food poisoning
- side effects of medication
- food allergies and intolerances
- digestive issues
- infection
There are
- viral infection, such as norovirus, rotavirus, or viral gastroenteritis
- bacterial infection, such as salmonella or campylobacter
- parasitic infection, such as giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis
Depending on the cause, different medications are available for diarrhea. Typically, treatment options involve regulating gastrointestinal movement and increasing fluid absorption in the intestines.
In this article, we will discuss medications that can help relieve diarrhea.

OTC medications are available for acute diarrhea. However, if symptoms persist, a person may require different treatment to target whatever is causing it. Common medications for diarrhea
Loperamide
Loperamide, which people commonly refer to as its brand name, Imodium, is an anti-diarrheal agent that treats diarrhea by
Potential side effects of loperamide
- dry mouth
- nausea
- passing wind
- stomach cramps
- ileus, a temporary lack of muscle contraction in the intestine
- constipation
- dizziness
- tiredness
- difficulty emptying urine from the bladder
It is also worth noting that loperamide is not a controlled substance, and there is a risk of overdosage and severe adverse reactions. As such, the recommended usage for adults and those 13 years and older is an initial dose of 4 milligrams (mg) or 2 capsules, then 2 mg or 1 capsule after each loose stool. It is not advisable to exceed 16 mg or 8 capsules per day.
Bismuth subsalicylate
Bismuth subsalicylate, which people
As the drug passes into the stomach, it
Bismuth subsalicylate
- nausea
- bitter taste
- dark or black stool
As this drug contains salicylate, it is not advisable for people with allergies, such as aspirin, to use bismuth salicylate. Additionally, this drug may interact with other medications. As such, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using it if a person takes any drugs for:
- anticoagulation
- diabetes
- gout
- arthritis
Prescription medication is generally more specific to the
Alosetron
Eluxadoline
Eluxadoline,
Rifaximin
Rifaximin, which has the brand name Xifaxan, is a form of treatment for
Some people should avoid taking diarrhea medications. For example, OTC diarrhea medications can be
- infants
- toddlers
- young children
Additionally, people should avoid OTC medication if there is blood present in their stool, the person has a fever, or there are other signs of either bacterial or parasitic infection. If diarrhea persists for more than 2 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Individuals should always make sure any medication they take does not contain an ingredient that may cause an allergic reaction. If they are unsure, they can check with a doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, someone who is pregnant should check with a healthcare professional before taking new medication.
Diarrhea causes a risk of dehydration and, in long-term cases, malnutrition. The
To make the stool less runny, a person may consider consuming low fiber foods or following the BRAT diet. BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. The
Click here to learn more about what to eat and drink when experiencing diarrhea.
Washing hands regularly and thoroughly is
In areas where food and water are more likely to contain harmful pathogens, it is better to avoid tap water and drink water from bottles instead. Before buying bottled water, people should check the seal to ensure it is still intact. It may also be advisable to avoid raw vegetables and fruits and stick to well-cooked meals that have not been sitting on a buffet.
To prevent dehydration from diarrhea, people can use oral rehydration therapy or electrolyte drinks as soon as they notice symptoms.
Diarrhea typically refers to when people pass watery stool at least three times a day. There are different possible causes of diarrhea, and the condition can be acute or chronic, depending on how long it persists. Without treatment, the condition can result in severe complications.
As such, it is advisable to use medications to help relieve symptoms of diarrhea. Both OTC and prescription options are available, which aim to slow the passage of contents through the intestines and increase the absorption of fluids. In many cases, diarrhea resolves within a few days. However, if symptoms persist for more than 2 days, it is advisable to contact a doctor.