Suggest Treatment For Traveler's Diarrhea

Posted on Sun, 24 Apr 2016

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

Sun, 24 Apr 2016 Answered on

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,

I traveled from XXXXXXX to US last night. I have loose motions here 3 times since I reached.
I am guessing may be due to long travel and food difference and avidity.
Can you please advise what to do here.

Thanks,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Travellors diarhea

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.

This type of diarhea usually happens when one travels from developed country to developing country. It resolves spontaneously. Nothing much needs to be done.

You can take gatorade or ORS-L after every motion. You can also try tab loperamide 2 mg one tablet and see if it makes you feel better.

You can take the routine diet. Only caution that may be needed initially is cleaner water and home made food.

If symptoms persist more than 1 week, you can try a short course of antibiotics.

Hope it helps.

Dr Vaishalee

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Vaishalee Punj (32 minutes later)

Thanks for the response.
Do I need a prescription to get these medicine?
If yes, how can I get the prescription?
What antibiotics I need to take if not resolved?

Answered by Dr. Vaishalee Punj (21 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No you dont need prescription for loperamide

Detailed Answer:
Hi again

You dont need prescription for loperamide.

In travellors diarhea, ciprofloxacin is usually prescribed in the dose of 500 mg bd for 3 days. Antibiotics may need prescription.

Hope it helps.

Dr Vaishalee

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj