Antidiarrheals

Drug used to control diarrhoea is called antidiarrheal drugs.

Mechanism of action

Antidiarrheals active opioids receptor in G.I. tract to decrease intestinal motility and to increase the absorption of fluid and sodium in the intestine.

Drug example and doses

1 Loperamide – 2-4mg

2 Diphenoxylate – 5-10mg

3 Octreotide – 100-250mcg/TID

4 Polycarbophil

5 Bismuth subsalicylate – 60 ml 6hourly suspension

Indications / Uses

To treat underlying cause of diarrhea.

To control the relive symptoms of acute and chronic diarrhea.

Contraindication / Precautions

Contraindicated in abdominal pain of unknown pathology.

There is an increased risk of megacolon in clients with inflammatory bowel disorders.

This could lead to a serious complication such as perforation of bowel.

Adverse effects

Constipation.

Abdominal pain.

Pain at the injection site.

Nausea.

Gall stones. (With octreotide)

Drowsiness. (With diphenoxylate, and Lopramide

Drug interactions

Use diphenoxylate or loperamide with similar acting drugs causes additive anticholinergic effects.

Antidiarrheals Notes PDF

Antidiarrheals - Mechanism of action, Indications, Contraindication, Adverse effects and Drug interactions