Many medications can treat diarrhea, depending on the cause and severity. Over-the-counter options are often effective for mild cases, while more specific medications might be necessary for chronic or severe diarrhea.
Over-the-Counter Medications
- Loperamide (Imodium): This is a common anti-diarrheal medication that slows down bowel movements, allowing the body to absorb more fluid. [Source: NHS, Drugs.com, Medical News Today, Family Doctor]
- Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol): This medication helps to coat the intestines, reducing irritation and inflammation. [Source: Drugs.com, Medical News Today]
Prescription Medications
Several prescription medications target specific causes of diarrhea or are used for more complex cases.
- Eluxadoline (Viberzi): This medication is specifically used to treat diarrhea associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D). [Source: WebMD, Medical News Today]
- Alosetron (Lotronex): Another prescription medication used for IBS-D. [Source: Medical News Today]
- Rifaximin: Effective in treating chronic diarrhea related to Irritable Bowel Syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. [Source: Provided reference]
- Antispasmodics (alverine citrate, mebeverine, otilonium bromide, pinaverium bromide): These medications help relieve diarrhea symptoms and abdominal pain. [Source: Provided reference]
Important Considerations
It's crucial to remember that this information is for general knowledge and shouldn't be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. They can help determine the best course of treatment based on your individual needs. Severe or persistent diarrhea requires medical attention.
