Over the counter medicine for diarrhea and stomach pain

It's like the childhood book taught us—everybody poops, right? But there's a big difference between needing to go number two and having uncontrollable diarrhea, especially at inopportune times … like before a big work meeting, at a wedding, or while you're on vacation.

Diarrhea is defined as passing loose, watery stools, three or more times a day. "There can be many different causes, but it's most commonly due to food intolerances, certain medications, celiac disease, bacterial or viral infections, or IBS-D," says Taz Bhatia, MD, an integrative health expert and founder of CentreSpring MD.

IBS-D, which stands for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, affects 25 to 45 million people in the U.S., and 2 out of 3 are female. "Patients with IBS-D often experience abdominal pain along with increased frequency of bowel movements, and these symptoms—along with others, like bloating—may force them to miss important social events, school, or professional obligations," says Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, a gastroenterologist at Illinois Gastroenterology Group.

Whatever's causing your repeated trips to the loo, make sure you drink up: With diarrhea comes the serious risk of dehydration. But you may also need some medication to help settle your stomach.

If you suspect that you have IBS, celiac disease, or another chronic GI issue, see your doctor to make sure that you get the right help. But for most people—including those who only get diarrhea occasionally—one of the following OTC remedies should offer quick relief. Stock your medicine cabinet now so you'll be ready the next time you end up with the runs. 

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Pepto-Bismol Original Liquid

If you've seen the commercial, you probably know the jingle about this medicine and what it helps relieve: "Nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea." This pink potion coats your stomach so you feel better fast, and it can be extremely helpful after overindulging in some not-so-healthy foods. Plus, the drinkable version is perfect for people who don't like swallowing pills. (Psst! Here are 6 signs your stomachache isn't normal.) 

Buy now: $5-7, amazon.com; target.com; walgreens.com 

Heal minor health problems on the go with these purse-sized items:

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Imodium Advanced Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets

If you can't stop running to the restroom, this medicine is here for you. Pop two pills and let both active ingredients loperamide HCI (which slows movement in your GI tract) and simethicone (a bloat-buster) start working right away. It's perfect during a diarrhea crisis, or you can take it as a preventative measure before a big day. But, if you find that celiac disease is the cause of your issues, talk to your doctor before using: Imodium caplets are not certified gluten-free as some ingredients are wheat-derived. 

Buy now: $9, amazon.com; walgreens.com; target.com 

MORE: 9 Things That May Surprise You About IBS

Turmeric Curcumin with Bioperine

Chances are you've heard about the wonders of turmeric; maybe you've even tried it to see if it would help with an inflammatory issue, like arthritis. But did you know that the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can also help ease diarrhea? Taz suggests adding a teaspoon to warm water. (You can also try one of these 9 ways to add more turmeric to any meal.) 

Buy now: $18, amazon.com 

DiaResQ Vanilla Diarrhea Relief for Adults

Unlike some of the other products on this list, these powder packets actually provide much-needed nutrients as well as other ingredients to keep you energized and help restore intestinal function. Mixing cups are provided with purchase; simply mix 30 milliliters of water with a packet and drink it down. Add it to your packing list if you're headed somewhere that severe traveler's diarrhea is common.

Buy now: $19, amazon.com 

MORE: How Often Is Too Often For Diarrhea, And When Should You Worry?

Kaopectate Multi-Symptom Relief Anti-Diarrheal Upset Stomach Reliever Caplets

It contains the same active ingredient that's found in Pepto Bismol, but Kaopectate pills are a good option if drinking something pink or chewing chalky tablets isn't your thing. Again, if you suffer from celiac disease, these caplets are not certified gluten-free. (Here's what to do if you suffer from runner's trots.) 

Buy now: $5, amazon.com; walmart.com 

Yogi Ginger tea

If you're looking for a more natural way to relieve diarrhea or improve on your IBS-management routine, try sipping on this ginger tea. Add a spoonful of honey; according to Taz, honey and ginger can help soothe the stomach and reduce irritation.

Buy now: $4, amazon.com; target.com; walmart.com

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Amy Schlinger is a health and fitness writer and editor based in New York City whose work has appeared in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, The New York Post, Self, Shape, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, and more; The National Academy for Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) is extremely passionate about healthy living and can often be found strength training at the gym when she isn’t interviewing trainers, doctors, medical professionals, nutritionists, or pro athletes for stories. 

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