Other peoples experiences with anti diarrhea medication.

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Jul 24, 2016
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Sick of the daily stress and anxiety of constantly worrying where the closest toilet is when I leave the house I am wondering if others use anti diarrhea medication and whether they have any side effects?
 
I've found Kaopectate usually works best for me as it treats many different symptoms, including diarrhea. I've found it eliminates gas, cramping, and stomach aches. I used to take Imodium and then I would have to take Pepcid to calm my stomach. Pepcid takes a while to work, but Kaopectate works on me in about 15 minutes. It has the same active ingredient as Pepto-Bismol but doesn't taste chalky (I take the Kao caplets and swallow them with water).

The only side effect I have noticed is that it causes constipation if it's taken in higher amounts, so I try to stick to 2 caplets.
 
I have a repeat script for Loperamide.I have used it for 10+years.Instructions say up to 8 per day,but I try to limit it to 3 or 4.I don't use it daily and taking too many can be constipating,which is almost as bad as the opposite.I take them as they give me confidance to leave the house if I have morning appointments etc.as mornings are usually worst for me.Pysillium makes me constipated,even though I take only 1 capsule twice daily instead of two,and drink lots of water.I tried them again only last week and had to stop after 3 or 4 days.
Of course we're all different and it's trial and error to get something that works.
 
My GI always tells me not to use anti-diarrhoea meds but doesn't say why not. I assumed they were dangerous for people with Crohns but maybe I'm mistaken and they're OK in moderation?
 
My GI always tells me not to use anti-diarrhoea meds but doesn't say why not. I assumed they were dangerous for people with Crohns but maybe I'm mistaken and they're OK in moderation?

I try to avoid taking them as much as possible (I am currently undiagnosed) but I figure it is much better than dehydration. Kaopectate, for me, is the best option. The only reason why a GI would say not to use them is if you have a rampant infection such as C.dif. which could get worse. Some diarrhea that is caused by antibiotics should not be treated with anti-diarrhea medications either.
 

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