8 Commonly Used Medications for Everyday Stomach Discomfort
Bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation are common digestive problems, and various medications are used to relieve them. However, each drug has a specific use, and choosing the wrong one can worsen symptoms or delay the diagnosis of serious diseases.
According to Ambassador Arjan, quoted by verywellhealth, stomach discomfort may be caused by gas accumulation, indigestion, heartburn or constipation. Various medications, from antacids to simethicone, can help relieve these symptoms; But choosing the right drug depends on the type of symptom and its underlying cause.
1. Antacids to relieve heartburn and indigestion
Antacids are used to relieve mild to moderate heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. These symptoms may worsen after eating or lying down.
How it works: Antacids neutralize the acid in the stomach and help reduce the feeling of burning and discomfort caused by esophageal irritation. These drugs usually work within minutes, but their relief is short-lived and mostly for occasional symptoms.
Common types: Many antacids are available over the counter. Some well-known examples are Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, and Gaviscon.
Possible side effects: Side effects depend on the ingredients of the drug. Products containing magnesium may cause diarrhea, while those containing calcium or aluminum may cause constipation. Excessive or inappropriate use of some calcium antacids can also increase the risk of kidney problems, including kidney stones.
Important points: take antacids according to the instructions of the product. Some are usually taken about an hour after a meal or when symptoms start. These drugs are not a good treatment for serious problems such as stomach ulcers, appendicitis, or gallstones. If symptoms recur frequently or do not improve with antacids, see your doctor.
2. Symmethicone to reduce bloating and gas
Simethicone is used to reduce bloating, pressure and discomfort caused by gas accumulation in the stomach or intestines. This medication may be helpful for people who experience gas discomfort after eating or swallowing air.
How it works: Simethicone helps the tiny bubbles of gas coalesce to make it easier for them to pass through the digestive tract. This medicine does not prevent the production of gas, but it can reduce the discomfort caused by existing gas.
Common types: Simethicone is available without a prescription and in the form of chewable tablets, soft capsules and liquid. Sometimes it is combined with other effective ingredients in multi-purpose products. Gas-X, Phazyme and Mylanta Gas are well-known examples of these products.
Possible side effects: Simethicone is usually well tolerated. Changing the color of stool or tongue is not a common side effect of this drug and should not be attributed to simethicone without investigation. Constipation or tinnitus are also mentioned in the article as rare side effects related to improper consumption.
Important notes: This medicine may be taken after meals or at bedtime as prescribed. If bloating persists, worsens, or is accompanied by significant pain, the cause should be investigated.
3. Bismuth subsalicylate to relieve upset stomach
Bismuth subsalicylate is a drug used to relieve nausea, indigestion, stomach upset, heartburn and diarrhea. This drug is sometimes used for traveler's diarrhea or gastrointestinal discomfort caused by overeating and some mild gastrointestinal infections.
How it works: This drug helps protect the lining of the stomach and intestines and can reduce inflammation and fluid loss. It also has some antimicrobial effect and contains a compound of the salicylate family, similar to the compounds found in aspirin.
Common types: This drug is available in liquid and chewable tablets. Pepto-Bismol is one of its well-known examples.
Possible side effects: Bismuth subsalicylate can temporarily darken the color of the tongue or stool. This discoloration is usually harmless, but if the stool is black, tarry, or foul-smelling, gastrointestinal bleeding should be investigated.
Important points: due to the presence of salicylate, this drug should not be used without a doctor's opinion for children and adolescents who are recovering from viral diseases; Because there is a risk of Reye's syndrome. Also, people allergic to aspirin, users of anticoagulants and some other patients should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
If diarrhea continues for more than two days or worsens, it is necessary to see a doctor.
When is black stool dangerous?
Dark stools after taking bismuth subsalicylate are usually harmless. However, black, tarry stools, especially if accompanied by an unusual odor, weakness, dizziness, or vomiting blood, can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding and require immediate medical evaluation.
Loperamide is used to reduce the frequency of defecation and control diarrhea. This drug may be used in some cases of acute diarrhea, diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome, or traveler's diarrhea.
How it works: Loperamide slows down bowel movements, giving the bowel more time to absorb water and electrolytes. As a result, the stool becomes firmer and the frequency of defecation decreases.
Common types: This medicine is available in the form of tablets, soft capsules and oral solution. Imodium is one of its well-known examples.
Possible side effects: Constipation, fatigue and mild stomach discomfort are possible side effects. Loperamide overdose can cause dangerous heart rhythm disorders.
Important notes: Loperamide should be used only as directed and for a limited period of time. If there is blood in the stool, fever with diarrhea or the possibility of some bacterial infections, its consumption may be inappropriate.
Taking more than the recommended amount of loperamide can lead to serious and even fatal heart rhythm disorders. People with heart disease or those taking drugs affecting the heart rhythm should consult a doctor before use.
Fainting, severe heart palpitations or decreased level of consciousness after taking this medicine require emergency care.
5. Laxatives to treat occasional constipation
Laxatives are used to help relieve constipation, difficult bowel movements, hard stools, and straining during bowel movements. If increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake are not enough, some laxatives can help.
Common types: Laxatives are available in the form of powder, tablets and suppositories. Some of the known types are:
Metamucil: A fiber supplement that increases stool volume.
MiraLAX: An osmotic laxative that softens stool by retaining water in the intestine.
Dulcolax: A stimulant laxative that increases bowel movements.
Colace: a stool softener product.
How it works: Laxatives, depending on their type, increase the volume or moisture of stool or stimulate bowel movements. Some take effect within a few hours and others take a day or more.
Possible side effects: Bloating, increased gas and heartburn are possible side effects of laxatives. Improper or long-term use of some of them can cause dehydration and mineral imbalance.
Important tips: Take laxatives as directed and drink enough fluids, especially when using stool bulking types. Stimulant laxatives are not suitable for daily and long-term use without medical supervision. Contrary to the claim made in some non-scientific recommendations, it cannot be said that all stimulant laxatives usually cause weak bones; The risks depend on the type of drug, amount and duration of use.
If you have frequent constipation or need regular laxatives for normal bowel movements, the underlying cause should be investigated.