- Are used in the treatment of diarrhea, defined as the frequent expulsion of liquid or semi liquid stools → hinders absorption of fluids and electrolytes.
- In many instances, drug intervention is not required because is a protective mechanism used in an attempt by the body to flush out the offending pathogen or agent.
Antidiarrheal drugs may be given to relive the symptom (non-specific therapy) or may be given to treat the underlying cause of the symptom (specific therapy).
- For symptomatic treatment of diarrhoea, opiates and opiate derivatives are the most effective. They decrease diarrhea by slowing propulsive movements in small and large intestine.
Morphine is effective but not used because of serious potential adverse effects, other synthetic drugs such as diphenoxylate and loperamide are commonly used
- Adsorbent – demulcent products such as kaolin – pectin preparation may be included in antidiarrheal preparations, unfortunately, they may adsornutrient and other drugs, including the antidiarrheal agents if given concurrently
- Anticholinergic agents e.g. atropine are occasionally used to decrease abdominal cramping and pain associated with diarrhea.
- Specific therapy may include the use of antibacterial, which are recommended for use in carefully selected cases of bacterial enteritis.
- Severe diarrhea by salmonella, shigella, campylobacter and clostridia. Species can be treated by antibiotics (ampicillin, chloramphinicol, colistin, co-trimoxazole etc.
Indications for use
- severe or prolonged diarrhea (>2-3 days)
- when specifice causes have been determined
Glucose – electrolyte solution should be given in severe cases for electrolyte and fluid replacement. It contains:
Glucose 20 gm
NaCl 3.5gm
NaHCO3 2.5gm
KCl 1.5gm
Add water to 1000ml
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