Yes, OTC anti-diarrhea medications, such as Imodium, Pepto-Bismol, and Kaopectate, can relieve diarrhea in people with IBS. However, these drugs can have side effects and they're meant to be used only short-term.
You can use this medicine for up to 2 weeks for repeated attacks of IBS diarrhoea. But if any one attack lasts for longer than 48 hours, stop taking IMODIUM® and talk to your doctor.
Most people find that the bowel is most active in the morning and so Loperamide will help most if taken before breakfast. The medicine starts to work within half an hour of taking it, and is effective for 8-12 hours.
Adults and children aged 12 years and over: 2 capsules (4 mg) initially followed by 1 capsule (2 mg) after every loose stool. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 6 capsules (12 mg).
Your doctor may suggest trying OTC diarrhea medicines such as bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol) and loperamide (Imodium) for relief. Researchers have found these drugs can help slow diarrhea, but they won't help with other IBS symptoms like belly pain or swelling.
The best IBS tablets for you will depend on your specific symptoms. If you are suffering with diarrhoea, then Imodium is your best bet. If you're suffering from stomach cramps, then Buscopan is a great option. For trapped wind and spasming, Colpermin could alleviate your symptoms.
IMODIUM products treat diarrhea and contain an active ingredient called Loperamide, which works to help restore your digestive system to its normal pace. If symptoms persist for more than two days or get worse, consult your healthcare professional.
IMODIUM® slows down the movement (contractions) in your intestine so that you pass firmer stools less often. But usually, the drug doesn't completely stop you from having bowel movements3. Constipation may occur.
IMODIUM® IBS Relief helps take control of your medically diagnosed IBS diarrhoea. IMODIUM® Instants dissolve instantly on your tongue, so they're great for when you're on the go. IMODIUM® Dual Action Tablets not only helps stop diarrhoea, but also soothe painful cramps, bloating and wind.
Imodium tablet and capsule dosage for adults:
Take 2 pills (4 mg) after the first loose stool. Then take 1 pill after each next loose stool. Don't take more than 4 pills (8 mg) in 24 hours.
Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Seniors
Changing one's food and way of life is one of the best strategies to treat gastrointestinal issues in the elderly. This can include avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, such as fatty foods, caffeine, and sugar, and incorporating more fiber-rich foods into your diet.
Imodium is a common over-the-counter anti-diarrheal used to slow down the stool, and it's recommended by gastroenterologists because it's a multi-symptom relief pill. Not only does it tackle diarrhea with the loperamide, but it also relieves any gas and bloating with the simethicone, which is also found in Gas-X.
Imodium usually works for me a longer time, I would try it before bed and it should last through out the morning…if you want to prevent it. Each person is different and depending on the motility of your gut, definitely read the instructions and tailor it to the activities you have planned.
Imodium A-D can interact with clarithromycin, omeprazole, and antidepressants like fluoxetine and citalopram. It can also interact with tonic water and grapefruit or grapefruit juice. These interactions can increase the risk of side effects and serious heart rhythm problems.
Can I take Buscopan for a long time? Do not take Buscopan for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms change, get worse or have not improved after 2 weeks. Your doctor will want to rule out an illness that may be causing your symptoms.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful. Large amounts of fiber can hinder the absorption of medications, so take your medications one to two hours before the fiber supplement.
Too much loperamide can cause serious heart problems (including a fast or irregular heartbeat).
Adults and teenagers—The usual dose is 4 mg (2 tablets) after the first loose bowel movement, and 2 mg (1 tablet) after each loose bowel movement after the first dose has been taken. No more than 8 mg (4 tablets) should be taken in any 24-hour period.