Suggest An Appropriate Probiotic For Diarrhea While Traveling

Posted on Fri, 6 Apr 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 6 Apr 2018 Answered on

Mon, 3 Jul 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I am traveling and have sudden diahwrra with some nausea should I consult a doctor or just begin with Imodium and probiotic. If so what probiotic do you recommend

When should I expect a reply

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Start Imodium. Travelers diarrhea.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Most likely its gastroenteritis, usually gastroenteritis is by a viral infection (Nova virus) and is self-limiting, takes five to seven days.

But as you are traveling I would suggest you take Imodium 4mg twice daily can be increased to 16 mg a day.

Probiotic VSL# should be taken.

If ofloxacin and metronidazole are available without a prescription.

Drink plenty of oral rehydration solution. In case things worsen up visit the nearest doctor.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Ramesh Kumar, Gastroenterologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Ramesh Kumar (19 minutes later)

Hi so the probatic type is what again
Thank you I have not taken one before ?
I am in xxxx Island in the USA are those last two medications over the counter are they probiotics?

Answered by Dr. Ramesh Kumar (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Follow up.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Last two medications are antibacterial (for e.coli usually causing travelers diarrhea) and antiprotozoal. In case you would need a prescription.

Take any good over the counter probiotic available at nearest store containing lactobacillus and some other strains.

Start taking loperamide.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Ramesh Kumar, Gastroenterologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy