Best Antidiarrheal Medications of 2025

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Antidiarrheal medications are designed to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as food poisoning, infection, or medication side effects. These medications work by slowing down the movement of the digestive tract, allowing the body to absorb more water and nutrients from the stool. Some common types of antidiarrheal medications include loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate, and attapulgite. It is important to note that while these medications can provide relief from diarrhea symptoms, they should not be used for extended periods of time without consulting a healthcare provider.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets
ftb score rating icon 9.8
A+Health Loperamide Hcl 2 Mg Softgels Cover #TOP 2
A+Health Loperamide Hcl 2 Mg Softgels
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets Cover #TOP 3
Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Antidiarrheal Medications

#TOP 1

Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets

Amazon Basic Care
GETIEN-Y-GS-1201-390
Light Green
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets Cover
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets, 2 mg, Anti-Diarrheal, 24 Count (Pack of 1) (Packaging may vary)

Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Tablets contain 2 mg of Loperamide Hydrochloride, an anti-diarrheal medicine that controls symptoms of diarrhea, including Travelers' Diarrhea. These capsule-shaped tablets can be used by adults and children age 6 years and older.

What We Like
Effective as brand name
Great price point
Convenient unit doses
Works better than original brand
Gentle on stomach
What We Don't Like
Packaging hard to open
Requires scissors for opening
#TOP 2

A+Health Loperamide Hcl 2 Mg Softgels

Amazon Basic Care
LOP24
A+Health Loperamide Hcl 2 Mg Softgels Cover
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hcl 2 Mg Softgels, Anti-Diarrheal, Made in USA, 24 Count (Pack of 1)

A+Health Loperamide Softgels are an effective solution for controlling diarrhea. These softgels contain Loperamide Hcl 2mg, which is the active ingredient found in Imodium A-D. They are specially designed to help control the symptoms of diarrhea, including Travelers' Diarrhea. Made in the USA using ingredients from various countries, these liquid-filled capsules are easy to swallow, making them suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing. The softgels are suitable for adults and children 12 years and older, with each pack containing 24 softgels. The directions recommend taking 2 softgels after the first loose stool, followed by 1 softgel after each subsequent loose stool, with a maximum of 4 softgels in 24 hours. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clear fluids along with the softgels to alleviate diarrhea effectively.

What We Like
Cost-effective alternative
Easy to swallow softgels
Comparable effectiveness to name brands
Quick action
Great value
What We Don't Like
Slower onset of effects
#TOP 3

Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets

300450295323
Blue
Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets Cover
Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets with Loperamide Hydrochloride, Anti-Diarrheal Medicine to Help Control Symptoms of Diarrhea Due to Acute, Active & Traveler's Diarrhea, 24 ct.

Imodium A-D Diarrhea Relief Caplets with Loperamide HCl is an anti-diarrheal medicine that can help control and treat diarrhea symptoms for effective relief. Its proven formula works with your body to slow down your system and restore its natural rhythm and balance, allowing you to continue doing the things you love. Each caplet contains 2 milligrams of loperamide hydrochloride to help control symptoms of diarrhea due to acute, active and Traveler's diarrhea. The caplets are available in convenient tear-away packaging, suitable for use both at home and on-the-go, and are ideal for adults and children ages 6 and up.

What We Like
Effective for diarrhea relief
Fast-acting results
Convenient for travel
Helps manage IBS symptoms
Reliable and consistent
What We Don't Like
Packaging difficult to open
Formula changes noticed
#TOP 4

Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride 2 mg and Simethicone 125 mg Tablets

Amazon Basic Care
W277
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride 2 mg and Simethicone 125 mg Tablets Cover
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride 2 mg and Simethicone 125 mg Tablets, Multi-Symptom, Anti-Diarrhea Medicine, Gas Relief, 24 Count

Amazon Basic Care Tablets are a multi-symptom relief medicine that helps with diarrhea and gas. With active ingredients including loperamide hydrochloride and simethicone, these tablets provide relief from symptoms such as bloating, pressure, and cramps. They are comparable to Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief and are an over-the-counter solution for diarrhea. In addition to relieving symptoms, these tablets also help prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea. Proper handwashing can further help prevent the spread of infection that causes diarrhea. With Amazon Basic Care Tablets, you can find relief and take care of your digestive health.

What We Like
Effective as name-brand AD meds
Easy to swallow
Relieves stomach pain
Convenient to keep on hand
What We Don't Like
Hard to open packaging
Tablets may break easily
#TOP 5

Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets

1680965
Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets Cover
Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets with Loperamide Hydrochloride and Simethicone, Anti-Diarrheal Medicine for Treatment of Diarrhea, Gas, Bloating, Cramps & Pressure, 24 ct.

Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets provide 24 count of effective relief against diarrhea and its related symptoms. It contains loperamide HCl and simethicone to slow down the system and restore natural balance, reducing bloating, gas, pressure, and cramps. This branded medication is suitable for adults and children over 12 years old and can be used both at home and on-the-go.

What We Like
Fast and effective relief
Comprehensive symptom management
Convenient travel packaging
Reliable for digestive support
What We Don't Like
Difficult blister packaging
#TOP 6

Imodium A-D Softgels for Diarrhea Relief

Imodium A D Anti Diarrheal Medicine
Imodium A-D Softgels for Diarrhea Relief Cover
Imodium A-D Anti-Diarrheal Medicine Softgels with 2 mg Loperamide Hydrochloride per Capsule, Diarrhea Relief to Help Control Symptoms Due to Acute, Active & Traveler's Diarrhea, 24 ct.

Imodium A-D Softgels are a fast and effective way to control diarrhea symptoms with just one dose. Its proven formula works with your body to slow down your system and restore its natural rhythm, suitable for adults and children 12 years and older. It is the #1 doctor-recommended anti-diarrheal brand for symptom relief and control, working faster than prescription medication. The softgels come in a convenient tear-away packaging, making them easily portable and ideal for on-the-go relief anytime, anywhere.

What We Like
Quick relief for tummy aches
Easy-to-open packaging
Convenient during illness
Reliable and well-known medication
What We Don't Like
Hard to extract from card
#TOP 7

Loperamide 2mg Caplets - 200 Count

Generic
IBS_DR_200
White
200 Capsules
Loperamide 2mg Caplets - 200 Count Cover
Diarrhea Relief, Loperamide 2mg - 200 Caplets

Loperamide 2mg Caplets offer effective relief for both acute and chronic diarrhea, helping you regain control over your symptoms. With each caplet containing 2mg of loperamide HCl, you can expect quick action to reduce the urgency and frequency of bathroom trips, allowing you to return to your normal activities with confidence. The 200-caplet value pack is both convenient and economical, ensuring you have a reliable supply on hand for any unexpected digestive issues. Plus, its compact packaging makes it easy to carry while traveling, so you can manage your symptoms on the go.

What We Like
No blister packs
Easy access
Good value for quantity
Effective performance
#TOP 8

MediNatura BHI Diarrhea Relief Tablets

1001182
MediNatura BHI Diarrhea Relief Tablets Cover
MediNatura BHI Diarrhea Relief Fast-Acting Natural Remedy for Mild Diarrhea 8 Soothing Homeopathic Actives Help Calm Stomach Pain Gas Indigestion & Cramps for Women & Men - 100 Tablets

MediNatura Diarrhea Relief offers a fast-acting solution for mild diarrhea and stomach discomfort. With its plant and mineral-based ingredients, you can expect gentle relief without the harsh side effects often associated with over-the-counter medications. This remedy combines eight natural components, including Colocynthis, to effectively ease stomach cramps, gas, and other digestive issues. You can take it daily or as needed, and it has no known interactions with other medications, making it a safe addition to your health routine. The dissolvable tablets are convenient for travel, ensuring you have relief on hand whenever you need it.

What We Like
Easy open bottle
Cost-effective alternative to Imodium
Fast shipping
No water needed
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Not strong enough for some users
Confusing directions
#TOP 9

Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets

Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets Cover
Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets for Nausea, Heartburn, Indigestion, Upset Stomach, and Diarrhea Relief, Original Flavor, 90 Total (3 Packs of 30)

Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets, also known as Pepto Bismol Chewables, are a fast and effective solution for multiple stomach-related symptoms. Whether you're dealing with nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, or diarrhea, these chewable tablets provide quick relief. Recommended by pharmacists as the number one brand for upset stomachs, Pepto Bismol Chewables calm and soothe your stomach while providing relief for a range of digestive issues. The convenient chewable form allows for on-the-go relief, making it easy to manage your upset stomach symptoms wherever you are. With high-quality standards as part of the P&G family, Pepto Bismol Chewables are a reliable choice for anyone seeking fast and effective relief.

What We Like
Effective for stomach issues
Convenient chewable format
Individually wrapped for travel
Good taste and fast relief
Long shelf life
What We Don't Like
Flavor could be better
#TOP 10

Amazon Basic Care Anti-Diarrheal Medicine

Amazon Basic Care
W912
Green
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Amazon Basic Care Anti-Diarrheal Medicine Cover
Amazon Basic Care Loperamide Hydrochloride Oral Solution, 1 mg per 7.5 ml, Anti-Diarrheal Medicine, Anti-Diarrhea Medicine For Kids and Adults 12 Years and Over, Mint, 8 fl oz (Pack of 1)

Amazon Basic Care Anti-Diarrheal Medicine is an effective medication for controlling diarrhea symptoms, including Travelers' Diarrhea. It contains Loperamide Hydrochloride 1 mg per 7.5 mL, and has a gluten-free mint flavor. A convenient dosage cup is included. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, but this medication helps to control diarrhea symptoms.

What We Like
Cost-effective alternative
Works quickly
Pleasant minty flavor
Easy to use
Consistent effectiveness
What We Don't Like
Not as fast as Imodium
Flavor could be better
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best medication for diarrhea?

Two types of meds relieve diarrhea in different ways: Loperamide (Imodium) slows the movement of food through your intestines, which lets your body absorb more liquid. Bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismol) balances out how fluid moves through your digestive tract.

2. What are the most common Antidiarrheals?

Loperamide is the most commonly used antidiarrheal and has been shown to decrease fecal urgency, borborygmi, and diarrhea. Other agents commonly used are cholestyramine, which is a resin that binds bile acids, and ondansetron,46 which is a serotonin receptor antagonist.

3. Is Pepto or Imodium better for diarrhea?

All in all, Imodium A-D and Pepto-Bismol are both safe and effective over-the-counter treatments for diarrhea in most people. A few notable differences may affect which drug you choose. For example: Pepto-Bismol can treat several other related symptoms, such as heartburn, nausea, and indigestion.

Editor's Notes

During our antidiarrheal medication research, we found 25 antidiarrheal medication products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 370,818 customer reviews through our big data system to write the antidiarrheal medications list. We found that most customers choose antidiarrheal medications with an average price of $10.08.

The antidiarrheal medications are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of antidiarrheal medications, including Imodium, MediNatura, Pepto Bismol. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Antidiarrheal Medications Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basic Care Amazon Basic Care Imodium Amazon Basic Care Imodium Imodium Generic MediNatura Pepto Bismol Amazon Basic Care
Product Benefits Anti-Diarrhea, Gluten Free Digestive Health 24-count package of Imodium A-D Caplets with loperamide HCl to help control and treat diarrhea symptoms for effective relief Anti-Diarrhea Anti-Diarrhea, Gas Relief Anti-Diarrhea Anti-Diarrhea Relief From Stomachache Relief From Nausea Anti-Diarrhea
Specific Uses For Product Diarrhea Diarrhea Diarrhea Diarrhea Gas Relief, Diarrhea, Bloating Diarrhea Diarrhea - Nausea Diarrhea
Item dimensions L x W x H 1.13 x 3.13 x 3.5 inches 3.88 x 3.28 x 0.88 inches 1.38 x 3.31 x 3.56 inches 1.5 x 3.88 x 3.25 inches 1.5 x 3.84 x 3.15 inches 3.56 x 1.38 x 3.31 inches - 6 x 7 x 2 inches - 2.18 x 2.18 x 6.03 inches
Special Feature - - clinically_proven Fast-Acting - fast_acting - Fast Acting fast_acting Fast-Acting
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy