Treatments: Over-the-Counter Medications

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Over-the-counter medications are available to help treat the symptoms of diarrhea, but if your diarrhea lasts for more than 4 days, contact a healthcare professional. Below are some of the nonprescription medications available to treat diarrhea:

• Treatments containing bismuth subsalicylate, such as Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate
• Treatments containing loperamide, such as Imodium or generic equivalent
• Treatments containing kaolin and pectin, such as Kapectolin

Note: In the last few years, Kaopectate has changed its formula, and in some cases, the older version (with active ingredients attapulgite or kaolin and pectin) may still be on drugstore shelves. To be sure you're using the right treatment, check the label. And always read the label of any medication before dispensing it to children.