“I want to stop my diarrhea, but I don’t know what to take” — A Pharmacist Explains!

? Patient:
I’ve had diarrhea and it’s not stopping. Is there anything over-the-counter I can take?

?‍⚕️ Pharmacist:
That sounds uncomfortable. Let me ask a few questions first, since the treatment depends on the cause.

1. The right treatment depends on the cause

?‍⚕️:
For example, common causes include:

• ? Overeating or drinking → Probiotics or astringents
• ? Stress or cold exposure → Herbal medicine (e.g., Hangeshashinto)
• ? Viral infection (with vomiting or fever) → OTC medicine not recommended; focus on hydration
• ? Chronic diarrhea → Could be IBS; better to consult a doctor

2. Common OTC diarrhea remedies

?‍⚕️:
If your symptoms are mild, over-the-counter meds may help. Here are some options:

• ✅ Stoppa (Loperamide) — Works fast to stop diarrhea. Best for emergencies.
• ✅ Biofermin Diarrhea Relief — Contains probiotics to rebalance your gut.
• ✅ Seirogan — Strong smell, but effective for intestinal pain, germs, and diarrhea.
• ✅ Hangeshashinto (e.g., Tsumura No.14) — Herbal option for stress-related or cold-induced diarrhea.

3. When to see a doctor

• ❌ High fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C) or vomiting
• ❌ Bloody stools
• ❌ Diarrhea lasting several days
• ❌ Unable to keep fluids down

?‍⚕️:
If you experience any of these, please see a doctor promptly.

? Summary: Choosing the Right Anti-Diarrhea Medicine

• ? Mild symptoms → Probiotics or loperamide (e.g., Stoppa)
• ? Stress or cold-related → Herbal options like Hangeshashinto
• ⚠️ Viral infections or serious symptoms → No OTC meds; focus on fluids and consult a doctor

Choosing the right treatment depends on the cause. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist ?

⚠️ This content is for general guidance only. Please consult a medical professional if you’re unsure or your child’s condition worsens.