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alternative to imodium when pregnant

by Stevie Haley V Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Alternatives to taking Imodium while pregnant can include:

  • Just waiting may be one option. Most instances of diarrhea, even during pregnancy, will typically go away on their own in a few days. ...
  • Avoiding certain foods can be a good way to prevent diarrhea or keep it from worsening. ...
  • Having probiotic yogurts or drinks can help restore the digestive system back to a sense of normalcy.

The most recommended antidiarrheal for pregnant women is a kaolin-and-pectin-type medication (Kaopectate). Avoid antidiarrheals that contain bismuth subsalicylate
bismuth subsalicylate
Bismuth subsalicylate, sold generically as pink bismuth and under the brand names Pepto-Bismol and BisBacter, is an antacid elixir medication used to treat temporary discomforts of the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Bismuth_subsalicylate
(Pepto-Bismol) or atropine/diphenoxylate (Lomotil).

Full Answer

Can you take Imodium while pregnant?

If a pregnant woman took high doses of Imodium for the opioid effects, that could contribute to a risk of birth defects similar to taking opioid pain medicines. Even though Imodium isn’t linked to specific birth defects, don’t take it without first discussing it with your doctor.

What can I take instead of Imodium for constipation?

Natural Alternatives to Imodium. 1 Calcium. Taking in more of this essential mineral is one way to ensure that your stools and bowel movements remain the same. 2 Slippery Elm Powder. 3 Peppermint. 4 Bananas. 5 Eat more Fiber. More items

Can you use peppermint tea instead of Imodium?

This means that as well as solving your diarrhea problems without the need of Imodium, you can also help to relieve any other symptoms of stomach distress and embarrassment. The best thing to do with Peppermint is to have a tea (or take a capsule) twice a day; once after waking up and once before falling asleep.

Does Imodium stop diarrhea?

Imodium (loperamide) is an over-the-counter medication that is designed to stop diarrhea by reducing bowel movements. While it is a drug that is proven effective, users should also consider its alternatives. Other medicines that are popular for treating diarrhea include Lomotil, Pepto-Bismol, and Kaopectate.

What is the active ingredient in imodium?

What is the best medicine for diarrhoea?

Why do I have diarrhea during pregnancy?

How to stop diarrhea from worsening?

Is imodium over the counter?

Is it safe to take imodium while pregnant?

Is loperamide a narcotic?

See more

What can you take to stop diarrhea while pregnant?

Loperamide, the active ingredient in the brand-name drug Imodium, is used to treat acute diarrhea and sometimes chronic diarrhea, and is considered safe for pregnant women. You can buy it at a pharmacy or drug store.

What happens if you take Imodium when pregnant?

Most doctors believe taking Imodium at a normal dose and infrequently won't lead to an increased risk of birth defects, but there's no guarantee. If a pregnant woman took high doses of Imodium for the opioid effects, that could contribute to a risk of birth defects similar to taking opioid pain medicines.

Can I take Imodium while pregnant NHS?

Loperamide in pregnancy Loperamide is not usually recommended in pregnancy. This is because there is not enough information to say whether it is safe or not. If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking loperamide. They'll be able to advise you about the benefits and possible harms of taking it.

Can Imodium cause miscarriage?

Can taking loperamide in pregnancy cause miscarriage? A very small study of 105 pregnant women taking loperamide showed no link with miscarriage.

runny tummy in pregnancy | BabyCentre

hi just had my 12 week scan and everything seemed fine. I have developed a runny tummy over the last few days. I don't have any other symtpoms no temperature, muscle ache or anything and i don't feel unwell.. has anyone else had a runny tummy while pregnant? could it be my hormone patterns or multivitamins that i am taking.

Can you take Imodium while pregnant? | BabyCenter

BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals.

Should pregnant moms be concerned about gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) is quite common during pregnancy and can cause serious illness or preterm labor in severe cases. Dr. Robyn Horsager-Boehrer shares tips to manage the symptoms and avoid the disease, as well as when to go to the doctor.

Gastroenteritis in Pregnancy - Ministry of Health

For more information call MotherSafe: NSW Medications in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Service on 9382 6539 (Sydney Metropolitan Area) or 1800 647 848 (Non-Metropolitan Area) Monday –Friday 9am-5pm

Pricing and Coupons

We could not find an exact match for this medicine. Try searching the Price Guide directly.

Half Life

The half-life of a drug is the time taken for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce to half its original value.

Calcium

Taking in more of this essential mineral is one way to ensure that your stools and bowel movements remain the same.

Slippery Elm Powder

This amazing natural plant, only really recently discovered by western medicine, is one amazing way to cure all of your bowel problems naturally without the use of Imodium. In fact, in some ways, the creation of Imodium was done to emulate this herbal source.

Peppermint

Another tea-based way to help to cure your digestive problems naturally without taking Imodium is Peppermint tea, or taking a Peppermint supplement.

Bananas

Bananas are a great natural source that can help with almost all kinds of stomach problems, diarrhea included.

Eat more Fiber

Although it may seem weird, as Fiber is one of the things that is recommended to consume extra of if you are suffering from constipation, Fiber also helps to solve any diarrhea problems naturally without having to use Imodium.

Black Tea

Although shortly after drinking tea you may feel the need to go, over time, drinking a cup or two of black tea a day can help you herbally solve your diarrhea problems without having to go back onto the Imodium.

Conclusion

With all of these natural ways to solve diarrhea, there is almost no need for you to consider taking Imodium, unless under strict doctor orders to do so for a disease such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Crohn’s Disease.

Why Loperamide?

Loperamide medicines are sold over the counter in the United States and many countries around the world. It is a safe drug that was initially thought to be addictive and thus was controlled. However, the FDA approved it as an OTC after discovering it did not affect the central nervous system.

Why Look For Alternatives?

There are several reasons for which people may prefer other alternatives to Loperamide. Chief among the reasons is its cost. Generally, some of the other alternatives like Pepto-Bismol may be relatively cheaper than Loperamide. Another reason may be the relief of symptoms associated with diarrhea.

Common Loperamide Alternatives

There are numerous alternatives to Loperamide tablets, gel caps, liquids, and chewable tablets on the market. It is important that when considering these options, users do not assume that they are completely safe just because they are available OTC.

When Considering Loperamide Alternatives

Many alternatives are only available by prescription. This means that even gaining access to them will require a doctor’s prescription. Users should, therefore, consult with a medical doctor before using any medication, even loperamide OTC to avoid unnecessary health risks.

Be Cautious With Loperamide Alternatives

Loperamide and its alternatives are effective for treating diarrhea and its symptoms by restricting bowel movements. However, there is a tendency for abuse if the prescription is not strictly adhered to. Abuse of these drugs can result in severe health problems including death if help is not sought early.

Does Pepto Bismol cause bleeding?

Pepto-Bismol contains salicylate (similar to that found in aspirin), which may cause bleeding in mother and/or baby. Bismuth has caused birth defects in experimental animals. While pregnant, do not take either of these medications.

Is imodium A-D good for diarrhea?

Therefore, we have put these two medications in the “yellow light” or caution category. If your doctor feels that it would be better in your situation to slow down diarrhea, Imodium A-D may be the best choice.

Can you take antidiarrhea while pregnant?

Pregnancy diarrhea can be uncom fortable, however, no antidiarrhea medications (even those obtained over-the-counter) should be taken without your doctor’s advice. Increased intestinal motility and consequent diarrhea is the body’s natural way of getting rid of harmful bacteria/toxins.

Is kaolin safe to take during pregnancy?

The combination of kaolin and pectin (Kaopectate), even though it is safe to take during pregnancy, is not very helpful. Imodium A-D is a more effective pregnancy diarrhea medication and is reported to be safe to take during pregnancy.

What to do if you have diarrhea?

If you have diarrhea (loose stools three or more times in one day), be sure to drink plenty of fluids to replace those you are losing. But avoid drinking dairy products, soda, and juices, which may make the diarrhea worse.

Is it safe to take anti-diarrhea pills while pregnant?

There's not enough data to completely rule out risk for most drugs in pregnancy (for safety reasons, few studies test drugs in human pregnancies), but I would rate anti-diarrhea drugs as low-risk. It's always a good idea to call your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medicine, to make sure it's safe for you and your baby.

Can you get dehydrated and put your baby at risk?

If you get really dehydrated, your blood won't be able to circulate as well to your organs or your placenta, and you'll need to be hospitalized and given intravenous fluids.

What medications should pregnant women avoid?

Pregnant women should avoid the following medications: ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Bactrim (an antibiotic), aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and codeine. When choosing medications, avoid all-in-one medications such as cold medicine that treats nasal congestion, fever, and aches and pains with one dose.

Can you take OTC while pregnant?

OTC medicines that are okay during pregnancy. Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. You might have morning sickness for months, while your best friend feels great. One universal, however, is that pregnant women can still get sick — and they experience more aches and pains than normal.

Is it safe to take over the counter medication while pregnant?

Although many medications are thought to be safe during pregnancy, it ’s important to discuss any medications you’re taking with your doctor . That’s especially true if you have a high-risk pregnancy. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking an over-the-counter medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Is it safe to take over the counter medications during the second trimester?

Doing so can help to avoid birth defects and other serious problems that could arise from potentially harmful medications. Most doctors agree that it’s safer to take over-the-counter medications during the second trimester.

How does loperamide work?

Loperamide effectively treats diarrhea in adults and children over the age of 2 years by slowing down the movement of the bowel. Children are especially sensitive to its effects, especially if they... View.

Does alcohol affect loperamide?

Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of loperamide such as dizziness, drowsiness... View. more. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of diphenoxylate such as dizziness... View. more. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of loperamide such as dizziness, drowsiness...

What is the best treatment for labor pain?

Local Anesthesia. According to Dr. Hariton, an injection of medicine "that blocks the nerves to the perineum, vulva, and vagina can help during the second stage of labor [pushing].". While this type of anesthesia, known as a pudendal block, doesn't help with the pain associated with contractions, "it relieves pain around ...

What to do if you can't have an epidural?

If you are unable to have an epidural, be sure to discuss all your options with your health care provider to find the one (or combination) that works best for you and your birth plan.

Can opioids be used in labor?

Though they aren't recommended for use later in labor, opioids are very effective in helping with early labor pain. Certain complications arise if they are used too late though—they cross the placenta and can result in the baby experiencing respiratory depression or the need for neonatal resuscitation after birth.

Can you have an epidural during labor?

If you want a pain-free (or at least pain-minimized) labor and delivery but can't have an epidural, don't despair. There are still medical or drug-free options available ...

What is the active ingredient in imodium?

The active ingredient in Imodium is called loperamide. L operamide is intended to decrease the frequency and severity of diarrhea. Imodium works by slowing the movement of the intestines, so it’s also recommended for the treatment of specific conditions like gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and short bowel syndrome.

What is the best medicine for diarrhoea?

If these tips don’t work, a doctor may advise an anti-diarrhea medicine such as Imodium. Imodium can be a better option than something like Pepto-Bismol. Pepto-Bismol has been linked to birth defects in animal studies. Pepto-Bismol also contains salicylate, which can cause bleeding in the mother and the baby.

Why do I have diarrhea during pregnancy?

Diarrhea during pregnancy can be caused by changes in hormones and diet, as well as anxiety. Diarrhea tends to be more common in the third trimester, often because the body is starting to prepare for labor and delivery. While the natural inclination may be to reach for something like Imodium, doctors warn against it.

How to stop diarrhea from worsening?

Avoiding certain foods can be a good way to prevent diarrhea or keep it from worsening. Foods that tend to make diarrhea worse include spicy foods, foods high in fiber, high-fat and fried foods, and milk and dairy. Having probiotic yogurts or drinks can help restore the digestive system back to a sense of normalcy.

Is imodium over the counter?

It’s on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. While Imodium is available over-the-counter, there has been some controversy surrounding its use. Loperamide is technically an opioid, like narcotic pain medications.

Is it safe to take imodium while pregnant?

It may be okay to occasionally take Imodium as instructed during pregnancy, but there’s no evidence showing it’s safe. Imodium is a category C drug. The FDA categorizes prescription and over-the-counter medicines to indicate how safe or risky they’re believed to be during pregnancy. A category c drug is somewhere in the middle and is part ...

Is loperamide a narcotic?

Loperamide is technically an opioid, like narcotic pain medications. At normal, therapeutically recommended doses, loperamide can’t cross the blood-brain barrier, so it doesn’t have the psychoactive effects of other opioids. At high doses, it can cross into the brain and cause a sense of euphoria and other effects similar to opioids.

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