Medication for diarrhea
Loperamide is an active ingredient that inhibits intestinal movements (peristalsis) and therefore counteracts diarrhea, it is also known as a “peristalsis inhibitor”. Loperamide belongs to the opiods, but only acts peripherally via opiod receptors in the intestine and in the commercially available dosage has no effect in the central nervous system. Nevertheless, it is only approved for children over 12 years of age.
It should also not be taken during the breastfeeding period. If bloody diarrhea indicating an acute bacterial intestinal infection is present, loperamide should not be taken. This is because the bacteria should rather leave the intestine with the stool than remain in it for longer.
The probably best known trade mark for Loperamid is Imodium®. You can find detailed information under Loperamide and Imodium®. Perenterol® is a drug that consists of certain yeast fungi (so-called Saccharomyces boulardii).
These yeast fungi settle in the intestinal mucosa and thus inhibit the colonization of pathogenic bacteria. The natural intestinal flora is thus supported. Perenterol® is normally used for the treatment of acute diarrhea, but can also be used to prevent travel diarrhea.
You can find detailed information under Perenterol®. In severe diarrhea the body loses a lot of fluid and electrolytes in a short time, which can lead to considerable complications, especially in older patients and infants. In the case of persistent or severe diarrhea, electrolyte mixtures can therefore be purchased in pharmacies to replenish the electrolyte balance of the body. The mixtures contain potassium and sodium chloride, among other things.Among the best known preparations are Oralpädon® and Elotrans®. Detailed information on electrolyte mixtures and an overview of the above-mentioned and other medications can be found under Medications for diarrhea.
Medication for abdominal pain
Omeprazole and Pantoprazole are among the so-called proton pump inhibitors, also known as acid blockers. They inhibit the production of excess gastric acid and thus prevent hyperacidity of the stomach and the associated irritation of the stomach lining. They are used for all diseases that are associated with acidosis of the stomach or where acidosis should be avoided.
These include heartburn/reflux, inflammation of the gastric mucosa or a stomach ulcer. As described above, they are also used as a preventive measure in the case of prolonged administration of drugs that inhibit the production of gastric mucus. These include painkillers such as ibuprofen, ASS or diclofenac.
You will find detailed information under Proton pump inhibitors, Omeprazole and Pantoprazole. Laxatives, also known as laxatives, can be used to treat abdominal pain caused by constipation. A well-known representative of this group is for example lactulose.
Lactulose draws osmotic water into the intestine and thus makes the stool softer, which makes bowel movement easier and can relieve constipation. The active ingredient bisacodyl, which is contained in the preparation Dulcolax® , for example, has a similar effect. The active ingredient inhibits the absorption of water from the intestine, which also liquefies the stool.
For detailed information, please refer to Laxatives, Lactulose and Dulcolax®. Buscopan® contains the active ingredient butylscopalmin and is used primarily for cramp-like abdominal pain. The active ingredient inhibits the contraction of the inner muscles of the abdominal organs and thus relieves “abdominal cramps“.
Since the active ingredient inhibits a signal substance, or the target receptor, which is distributed almost everywhere in the body, an overdose can have a variety of side effects. These include dry mouth, nausea and vomiting. Patients with chronic pre-existing conditions should ask their doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking butylscopalmin. You will find detailed information under Buscopan®.
