There are a number of misconceptions surrounding the best way to deal with diarrhoea. Click on the blank speech bubbles below for suggested responses to things your customers might say.
It's better to let nature take its course
There is a risk of dehydration with diarrhoea,5 so slowing the intestine to allow the replacement of fluid and salts helps prevent this. It can also be helpful to treat the diarrhoea for times when you need to; for example, if going on a journey4
I don't want to get bunged up by stopping my bowels working
Less than 3% of users report constipation as a side effect when using Imodium (loperamide) for acute diarrhoea11
I can just drink water
Using loperamide slows the movement of the intestine. This allows time for water and important electrolytes to be absorbed11
I can just use rehydration sachets
Oral rehydration can help to replace lost fluids and electrolytes but doesn't slow the movement of the intestine.
You shouldn't eat if you have diarrhoea
You can eat what you feel able to - there is no need to avoid certain foods but you may find that particular foods aren't appetising when you feel unwell4
Mini Quiz
Drag the right word to complete the sentence:
Loperamide works by binding to opiate receptors in the
gut wall
brain
stomach
Incorrect this time. Try again or click 'continue' below to progress.Retry
Correct. Well done! Click 'continue' below to progress.
