Diarrhea Treatment

Both over-the-counter and prescription medications can be used to help relieve the symptoms or treat the causes of diarrhea. The particular type of medication used will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.

Diarrhea medication

The following medications may be prescribed or recommended for diarrhea:

• Antibiotics: These drugs, which treat bacterial and parasitic infections, are often prescribed for cases of traveler’s diarrhea. Common antibiotics used for diarrhea treatment³² include azithromycin (generic Zithromax, Zithromax Z-Pak, Zmax), ciprofloxacin (generic Cetraxal, Cipro XR, Otiprio), and rifaximin (generic Xifaxan).

• Antidiarrheals: These drugs work to relieve symptoms of diarrhea. Common antidiarrheal medicines³³ include probiotics, adsordents, and antimotility agents. Popular over-the-counter antidiarrheals your provider or pharmacist may recommend include Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate. Your provider may prescribe the following medications for diarrhea:

Most cases of diarrhea resolve themselves within a few days without treatment.

However, if your diarrhea symptoms persist, a healthcare provider will investigate the cause. If it is determined that a bacterial or parasitic infection is causing your diarrhea, your provider may prescribe an antibiotic or antiparasitic. If dehydration worsens, your provider may recommend getting IV fluids.

If it is determined that one of your medications is causing diarrhea, your provider may adjust your dose or switch medications, if appropriate.

If your diarrhea stems from an underlying digestive condition, such as ulcerative colitis, your provider will develop a treatment plan for that condition. Treatment could include prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, diet and lifestyle changes, and even surgery.

For any case of diarrhea, electrolyte replenishment and hydration can help prevent serious complications. Drinking juices and eating soup can replenish important electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium. For children, oral hydration solutions can replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration.