What is Kaopectate

Kaopectate is an anti/diarrheal medication that can be used for adults, children and dogs. The medication comes in liquid, tablet form that can be taken with or without food. The medication can also be used lessen the symptoms of indigestion, nausea, and stomach ulcers.

This medication helps to relieve cramping and gas as well as urgency that accompanies diarrhea as a result of bacteria, viruses or other causes.

Depending on the formula you are taking, Kaopectate can have varying main active ingredients - typically either bismuth subsalicylate in oral or chewable forms and Imodium (also known as loperamide) as a tablet. These active ingredients work to achieve the same goal through varying mechanisms.

Bismuth subsalicylate slows the growth of bacteria that might be causing the diarrhea by preventing bacteria from binding and growing on the mucosal cells of the stomach. This process provides many benefits, including preventing intestinal secretion, promoting fluid absorption, reducing inflammation, and promoting the healing of any present ulcer in the stomach.

Imodium works differently by acting on mu-opioid receptors in the gut to slow down the movement of the gut, which in turn, slows down contractions in the intestines. This allows more time for fluids and nutrients to be absorbed back into the body, which makes the stool less watery and decreases the number of times you go to the toilet.

Kaopectate can be used to treat diarrhea in adults, children and dogs. When taking this medication, it is best to consult your doctor or if you are giving this to your dog then you should speak with your vet to discuss dosage.

It is also important to follow the directions listed on the medication packaging to ensure you are not taking more than the recommended amount. A common problem with Kaopectate is the possibility of constipation which is often a result of too high a dose.

If diarrhea continues after two days while taking the medication than it is very important to contact a medical professional. Ask your doctor about use on children under 12 years of age, and keep the product out of reach of children

Resources

If you are looking for pricing of medication, such as kaopectate cost, use eNavvi. eNavvi is an online RX search engine that can be used by doctors or patients to determine treatment costs. eNavvi is available online or in the Apple app store or Google Play store. All Medicaid and Medicare health plans in 8 states are included.

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. Please contact your doctor to see if this medication is right for you.

Katya Prevallet is passionate about health care and bringing drug price transparency to others so that everyone can find the best and most affordable medications as treatment options.