Kids diarrhea medicine, such as oral rehydration solutions, probiotics, zinc, or acetaminophen, may be recommended by a pediatrician to avoid complications like dehydration.
Diarrhea in babies and children is usually caused by an infection that resolves spontaneously without treatment, and rest with increased fluid intake is often enough.
However, if the child has a fever, diarrhea that lasts several days, very watery stools, or very frequent bowel movements, the doctor may prescribe medicines to help speed up recovery and prevent complications.
7 medicines for kids diarrhea
Some kids diarrhea medicine options that may be recommended by a pediatrician include:
1. Oral rehydration solutions
Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) involves giving appropriate solutions to correct and prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea.
Examples of oral rehydration solutions include Pedialyte, Hydralyte, and other FDA-approved rehydration solutions.
How to use: Oral rehydration solutions should be given slowly to the child throughout the day, especially after each episode of diarrhea or vomiting.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics help restore the balance of intestinal microflora, inactivate bacterial toxins, block toxins from binding to intestinal receptors, stimulate the immune system, and reduce inflammation. This creates unfavorable conditions for the multiplication of pathogens, leading to a shorter duration of diarrhea.
Common probiotics used to treat diarrhea include Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus strains (e.g., Culturelle Kids).
How to use: The dosage depends on the probiotic prescribed and should be followed as directed by the pediatrician.
3. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that plays a role in maintaining the intestinal epithelial barrier, tissue repair, and immune function. During acute diarrhea episodes, zinc deficiency may occur, and supplementation may be recommended by a doctor.
Examples of pediatric zinc supplements include FDA-approved zinc gluconate or zinc sulfate products formulated for children.
Also recommended: 30 Foods High in Zinc (& Recommended Daily Intake) tuasaude.com/en/foods-high-in-zincHow to use: The dosage depends on the zinc supplement prescribed and should be used according to pediatrician instructions.
Possible side effects: Zinc supplements are generally well tolerated, and no significant adverse effects are commonly reported.
4. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
In some cases, especially if diarrhea is caused by an infection, the child may also have a fever that can be relieved with an antipyretic like acetaminophen (Tylenol).
During diarrhea episodes, avoid using suppository forms whenever possible.
How to use: The dose depends on the child’s weight. Follow pediatrician instructions carefully.
Possible side effects: Rarely, allergic skin reactions may occur.
5. Ondansetron
Ondansetron is an antiemetic that may be recommended in cases of gastroenteritis, which can cause both diarrhea and vomiting.
This medication can be used in children over 2 years of age and is available in generic form or as brand-name Zofran.
How to use: The recommended dose for children ages 2 to 11 years is 4 mg up to three times per day, or as directed by the pediatrician. In hospitals, ondansetron can also be given intravenously in children over 6 months, with doses calculated by the doctor according to body weight.
6. Antibiotics (when necessary)
Ciprofloxacin and other antibiotics like ceftriaxone may be prescribed by the pediatrician in cases of bacterial gastroenteritis or bacterial dysentery caused by Shigella sp. In rare cases, tetracycline or erythromycin may be used if cholera with severe dehydration is suspected.
Antibiotic therapy is generally not recommended for diarrhea in children, except when blood is present in the stool, in severe non-intestinal infections, in children under 3 months of age, in cases of primary or secondary immunodeficiency, in those receiving immunosuppressive therapy, or if sepsis is suspected.
How to use: The dosage depends on the type of antibiotic and must always be prescribed individually by the pediatrician.
Possible side effects: Antibiotics may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, or severe allergic reactions.
What not to give a child
Children should not be given antidiarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) because these reduce intestinal transit and prevent bacteria, toxins, or other microorganisms from being eliminated through stools. This can worsen diarrhea and lead to complications.