There are various gastroenteritis medications, including antiemetics for nausea, antibiotics for infections, and ORS for dehydration.

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Various medications are available for gastroenteritis to relieve symptoms, prevent dehydration, and address the underlying cause when necessary.

Learn more about gastroenteritis medications, including how they work, their benefits, potential side effects, and more.

Nausea and vomiting are frequent symptoms of gastroenteritis. Antiemetics are types of medications that can help manage these symptoms by targeting the brain’s vomiting center.

Common antiemetics include:

These medications are available in various forms, including oral tablets, dissolvable strips, and injections.

Dissolvable strips, such as ondansetron, can be convenient for people who have difficulty swallowing or keeping pills down.

Typical dosages in adults include:

The primary benefits of antiemetics include fewer vomiting episodes and a reduced risk of dehydration. However, side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or constipation may occur.

Persistent diarrhea caused by gastroenteritis can lead to severe fluid loss. Antidiarrheal medications help decrease bowel movement frequency and provide relief from discomfort.

Some common options include:

  • loperamide (Imodium), 4 mg initially, followed by 2 mg after each loose stool (maximum: 16 mg per day)
  • bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), 524 mg every 30 to 60 minutes as needed (up to eight doses per day)

Although these medications provide quick relief, they should be avoided in adults with high fevers or bloody diarrhea, as slowing bowel movements can worsen severe infections.

Antidiarrheal medications, such as loperamide, may cause the following side effects:

  • bloating
  • abdominal cramping
  • dizziness

Antibiotics for bacterial gastroenteritis, such as infections caused by Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, or E. coli, are often reserved for most severe cases.

These medications work by either destroying bacteria or inhibiting their growth, addressing the underlying cause of the infection.

Commonly prescribed antibiotics for gastroenteritis include:

Dosages can differ based on individual symptoms.

However, improper use of antibiotics can cause resistance or disrupt gut flora, leading to mild diarrhea as a side effect. They should only be taken under medical supervision.

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and electrolyte replacement therapies replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to vomiting and diarrhea, effectively treating mild dehydration.

These solutions typically include balanced amounts of sodium, potassium, and glucose to help the gut absorb water and electrolytes more effectively. A common example is Pedialyte.

ORS is simple to use: Mix the recommended amount with clean water and sip it gradually throughout the day.

The required amount of ORS varies depending on age and body size. Adults often need larger quantities and children require smaller amounts depending on their weight.

However, in severe cases of dehydration, a healthcare professional may recommend intravenous fluids to restore hydration levels rapidly.

While ORS is generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to water toxicity, a condition caused by a severe drop in sodium levels, resulting in symptoms like confusion or seizures.

Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to the stomach, helping to restore gut flora balance and reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea.

Common strains include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium infantis.

Probiotics are available as:

  • dietary supplements in capsules, powders, liquids
  • enriched foods like yogurt, often containing mixed strains of live microorganisms in varying doses

Although probiotics are generally safe, they may not be suitable for people who have weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.

Side effects are rare but can include mild bloating or gas during initial use.

Gastroenteritis often resolves within 1 to 3 days, but certain symptoms may require medical attention. Speak with a doctor if you’re:

  • pregnant
  • immunocompromised
  • have inflammatory bowel disease
  • over age 70

You should also speak with a doctor if you:

  • experience symptoms lasting more than 3 days without improvement
  • show signs of severe dehydration, such as dry mouth, sunken eyes, or dark urine
  • notice blood in your stool or vomit
  • have a high fever or severe abdominal pain
  • have underlying conditions like heart disease that may increase the risk of a heart attack

A healthcare professional can conduct stool tests, recommend appropriate medications, and administer intravenous fluids if necessary.

Managing gastroenteritis often involves managing symptoms, preventing dehydration, and treating infections if present.

Medications like antiemetics, antidiarrheals, antibiotics, and probiotics support recovery from gastroenteritis, while rehydration therapy ensures proper fluid balance.

If you have gastroenteritis, consider talking with a healthcare professional for proper treatment and management.