Diarrhea
Over the counter relief options

Possible causes are viral or bacterial infections, food intolerances, food poisoning, digestive disorders, stress, or even reactions to medications, resulting in that the body has less time to absorb water and nutrients.

Symptoms of diarrhea could include abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, urgency, dehydration, and fatigue, and in some cases, fever or blood in the stool may occur, which can indicate a more serious condition.

While mild cases often resolve on their own, persistent or severe diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

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How to control diarrhea

Diarrhea can often be controlled with over-the-counter treatments that slow bowel movements, soothe the digestive tract, and prevent dehydration. Products like Imodium (loperamide) help reduce stool frequency, while Pepto-Bismol can calm the gut and ease cramping and nausea.

It’s important to replace lost fluids with oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks and to eat bland foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast until symptoms improve. 

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Pharmacist-recommended products​​

The following are the recommended products for diarrhea relief with convenient Amazon links, if your opt to purchase through, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. 

Imodium® A-D (Loperamide)

Pepto-Bismol® (Bismuth Subsalicylate)

Kaopectate® (Bismuth Subsalicylate)

Pedialyte® Oral Rehydration Solution

Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier

DripDrop® ORS  

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Pro tips and selection criteria​

Choosing the right product is based on symptoms, age and other factors that you need to consider to achieve the best relief results.​​

Imodium® A-D (Loperamide)

Loperamide helps quickly control sudden diarrhea by slowing intestinal movement and firming stools. It’s a good choice for diarrhea caused by mild food triggers, stress, or travel, and often works within hours.
Dose (adults): Take 2 tablets/capsule (4 mg) after the first loose stool, then 1 tablets/capsule (2 mg) after each additional loose stool, not to exceed 8 mg per day unless directed by a healthcare professional.
Tip: Stop use once stools return to normal. Do not use if you have fever, bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, or suspect an infection, as it may worsen certain conditions.

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Pepto-Bismol® (Bismuth Subsalicylate)

Bismuth Subsalicylate is a versatile option that helps relieve diarrhea along with stomach discomfort, mild nausea, gas, and indigestion. It also has mild antimicrobial effects, which can be helpful for traveler’s diarrhea and certain minor infectious causes.
Dose (adults): Take 30 mL (2 Tbsp) of liquid or 2 tablets every 30–60 minutes as needed, up to 8 doses in 24 hours.
Tip: Temporary darkening of the tongue or stool is harmless and expected. Avoid use in children under 12, during pregnancy, or if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates.

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Kaopectate® (Bismuth Subsalicylate)

Works similarly to Pepto-Bismol® by soothing the stomach and intestines to help control diarrhea, queasiness, and general digestive upset. It’s often chosen for travel or situations where a broad, all-in-one stomach remedy is helpful.
Dose (adults): Take 30 mL (2 Tbsp) every 30–60 minutes as needed, up to 8 doses in 24 hours (follow package directions, as formulations may vary).
Tip: Expect possible temporary darkening of the tongue or stool. Avoid use in children under 12, during pregnancy, or if you are sensitive to aspirin or other salicylates.

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Pedialyte® Oral Rehydration Solution

Oral Rehydration Solution is the preferred choice for children, older adults, and anyone at higher risk of dehydration. It is specially formulated to replace fluids and essential electrolytes efficiently during episodes of diarrhea or vomiting, helping prevent dehydration and support recovery.
How to use: Take small, frequent sips every few minutes; for children, offer 5–15 mL (1–3 teaspoons) at a time, gradually increasing as tolerated.
Tip: Use chilled for better taste and tolerance, continue normal feeding when possible, and avoid substituting with sports drinks, which contain too much sugar for rehydration during diarrhea.

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Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier

A convenient hydration powder designed for adults that helps the body absorb water more efficiently by pairing electrolytes with glucose. It’s especially useful during travel, outdoor activities, or when diarrhea leads to mild dehydration, and it can be used alongside anti-diarrheal medications to support fluid balance.
How to use: Mix 1 packet with 16 oz (500 mL) of water and sip slowly; repeat as needed based on fluid loss.
Tip: Use between meals and avoid mixing with less water than directed, as higher concentration may worsen diarrhea in some people due to sugar content.

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DripDrop® ORS  

A clinically formulated oral rehydration solution that meets WHO standards for treating moderate dehydration. It’s especially helpful for more significant fluid losses caused by prolonged diarrhea, heat exposure, or intense physical activity, providing fast and reliable rehydration without the need for medical care.
How to use: Mix 1 packet with 8 oz (250 mL) of water and sip steadily until hydration improves; repeat as needed based on fluid loss.
Tip: Take small, frequent sips if nausea is present, and continue using until urine is light yellow—an easy sign that hydration is improving.

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Which one to choose

• Use Imodium® for fast relief from sudden, non-infectious diarrhea when the main goal is to slow bowel movements and firm stools quickly.

• Always pair anti-diarrheals with rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte, Liquid I.V., or DripDrop to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, especially with frequent or watery stools.

• Choose Pepto-Bismol® or Kaopectate® when diarrhea comes with nausea, gas, indigestion, or stomach upset, as they provide broader digestive relief beyond stool control.

• Seek medical care if diarrhea is severe, lasts more than 48 hours, or is accompanied by fever, dehydration, severe pain, or blood in the stool, as these may indicate infection or a condition requiring medical treatment.

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