Introduction:
Diarrhea is a common digestive disorder that can turn your life into a mess. It can strike suddenly and cause a lot of discomforts, making it challenging to go about your day-to-day activities. While there are several reasons why someone can experience diarrhea, it’s essential to understand that timely treatment can help alleviate its symptoms. This article will discuss the top five effective medicines that can stop diarrhea in its tracks, allowing you to get back to your routine.
Top 5 Effective Medicines to Stop Diarrhea:
1. Loperamide (Imodium):
Loperamide is one of the widely used over-the-counter medicines for diarrhea. It works by slowing down your gut’s activity, reducing the amount of stool you pass. It also increases the gut’s muscle tone, reducing the urgency to use the bathroom. Loperamide is relatively safe to use, but it’s essential to consult your doctor before taking it. People with severe diarrhea or those taking specific medications should not take loperamide.
2. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol):
Bismuth subsalicylate is another over-the-counter medicine that can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms. This medicine helps reduce inflammation in the gut and control diarrhea by coating your intestines. It also kills some bacteria and protozoa, which can cause diarrhea. However, it’s essential to read and follow the instructions on the label and avoid taking it if you’re allergic to aspirin.
3. Rifaximin (Xifaxan):
Rifaximin is a prescription medication that can help treat traveler’s diarrhea caused by E.coli bacteria. It works by targeting specific bacteria that are responsible for diarrhea, reducing the symptoms. Rifaximin is relatively safe to use and has few side effects. However, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions, as it can interact with other medications.
4. Diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil):
Diphenoxylate and atropine are prescription medications that help control diarrhea symptoms. Diphenoxylate works by slowing down your gut’s activity, reducing the amount of stool you pass. Atropine helps prevent abuse by causing unpleasant side effects like headache and dry mouth. These medicines can cause drowsiness, so it’s essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking them.
5. Probiotics:
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide various health benefits, including reducing diarrhea symptoms. These “good bacteria” help maintain the balance of your gut microbiome, reducing the growth of harmful bacteria. Probiotics can be found in various foods, including yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. You can also take them in supplement form. However, it’s essential to consult your doctor before taking any supplement.
Conclusion:
Diarrhea can be uncomfortable and debilitating, but it’s essential to remember that it’s a treatable condition. The medicines discussed in this article can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms effectively. However, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before taking any medicine, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking other medications. Along with medicine, it’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and maintain a healthy diet to promote a speedy recovery.
