Loose motion, commonly known as diarrhoea, is a condition that most people encounter at some point in their lives.

It is characterised by frequent, watery bowel movements and is often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal cramps, dehydration, and weakness.

While loose motion can be caused by various factors, including infections, food intolerances, stress, or underlying medical conditions, prompt treatment can provide quick relief.

Looking for tablets to control loose motion? Wondering which are the best?

This blog by Karetrip explores the best tablets for managing loose motion, their effectiveness, and key takeaways for safe and responsible use.

Understanding Loose Motion and Its Causes

Loose motion is often a result of an imbalance in the gut. This imbalance can be caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, consumption of contaminated food or water, or reactions to certain medications.

Other contributing factors may include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or even anxiety and stress. It is important to address the root cause to effectively manage loose motion, especially if it becomes chronic or is accompanied by severe symptoms.

7 Best Tablets for Loose Motion

For cases of acute diarrhoea, over-the-counter and prescription tablets are available, and their efficacy can vary based on the cause and severity of symptoms.

Here are some of the most effective medications commonly prescribed or recommended for loose motion relief.

Loperamide (Imodium)

• How It Works: Loperamide is a commonly recommended antidiarrheal medication that slows down the movement of the intestines, allowing more time for water and electrolytes to be absorbed. By reducing bowel movement frequency, it provides quick relief from the symptoms of loose motion.

• Uses: Loperamide is suitable for cases of mild to moderate diarrhoea caused by food intolerances, stress, or infections. However, it should not be used for diarrhoea caused by bacterial infections like Clostridium difficile, as slowing down the gut can worsen the infection.

• Dosage: Loperamide is generally taken as two tablets initially, followed by one tablet after each loose stool, not exceeding 8 tablets in 24 hours.

• Side Effects: Possible side effects include dizziness, constipation, and nausea. In rare cases, it can cause serious heart problems if taken in excess.

Rifaximin (Xifaxan)

• How It Works: Rifaximin is an antibiotic specifically designed for gastrointestinal use. It targets certain types of bacteria responsible for diarrhoea, particularly those associated with traveller’s diarrhoea and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea (IBS-D).

• Uses: Rifaximin is effective in treating traveller’s diarrhoea caused by non-invasive strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli). It’s also used to manage IBS-D, where bacterial overgrowth may play a role.

• Dosage: The typical course for traveller’s diarrhoea is 200 mg taken three times daily for three days. For IBS-D, a longer course may be prescribed.

• Side Effects: Side effects are generally mild but may include nausea, headache, and abdominal pain. Rifaximin is relatively safe since it remains in the gut and has minimal absorption into the bloodstream.

Metronidazole (Flagyl)

• How It Works: Metronidazole is an antibiotic that works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and certain parasites that cause diarrhoea, especially in cases where an underlying parasitic or anaerobic bacterial infection is responsible.

• Uses: It’s commonly prescribed for infections caused by Giardia and Entamoeba histolytica, parasites known to cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Metronidazole is also used in cases of bacterial infections in the intestines and is highly effective for treating C. difficile infections.

• Dosage: The dosage varies based on the infection type, but for parasitic infections, it’s typically taken as 500 mg twice daily for 5-7 days.

• Side Effects: Side effects may include a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, and in some cases, gastrointestinal upset. Avoiding alcohol during treatment is crucial, as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting.

Ciprofloxacin

• How It Works: Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works against various types of bacteria responsible for infections in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Uses: It is especially useful in cases of traveller’s diarrhoea, bacterial gastroenteritis, and other infections caused by invasive bacteria like Shigella, Salmonella, and E. coli. Ciprofloxacin is commonly used in adults but is generally not recommended for children due to potential side effects.

• Dosage: Typically prescribed at 500 mg twice daily for 3-5 days, depending on the severity of the infection and patient’s age.

• Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and dizziness. In rare cases, it can cause tendonitis or tendon rupture, especially in older adults or those on corticosteroids.

Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)

• While not a tablet, ORS is crucial in treating dehydration that often accompanies diarrhoea. ORS solutions contain the right balance of salts, sugars, and minerals to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, ensuring that dehydration does not complicate the condition.

• Uses: ORS is beneficial in all types of diarrhoea, especially in children, older adults, and individuals at risk of severe dehydration. It should be used alongside antidiarrheal or antibiotic medications rather than as a replacement.

• Side Effects: ORS is generally safe with minimal side effects. However, consuming excessive quantities can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels.

Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

• How It Works: Bismuth subsalicylate has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation in the intestines and inhibit bacteria that cause diarrhoea.

• Uses: This medication is effective in treating mild to moderate diarrhoea, including traveller’s diarrhoea. It can be used to manage symptoms in both children and adults and is generally safe for short-term use.

• Dosage: The dosage typically involves taking two tablets every 30 minutes to one hour as needed, not exceeding eight doses in 24 hours.

• Side Effects: Side effects may include black stools or a blackened tongue, which are harmless but can be alarming if unexpected. Some individuals may also experience mild nausea.

Azithromycin

• How It Works: Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic effective against a wide range of bacteria. It is particularly effective against Campylobacter, a bacteria often responsible for foodborne illness and diarrhoea.

• Uses: It’s commonly prescribed for bacterial gastroenteritis in adults and children, especially when other antibiotics may not be suitable or are less effective.

• Dosage: The standard dose is 500 mg once daily for 1-3 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

• Side Effects: Azithromycin can cause nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhoea, although these side effects are generally mild.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey.