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Compare Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Loperamide (Imodium A-D) and alosetron (Lotronex) are both antidiarrheal medications, but they have different uses and availability. Loperamide is available over-the-counter and by prescription, and it treats general diarrhea, including travelers' diarrhea and diarrhea from chronic gut conditions. It works by slowing down bowel movements and reducing fluid in the intestines. Alosetron, on the other hand, is prescription-only and specifically used for severe diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) in women. It works by blocking serotonin receptors in the gut to reduce abdominal pain and discomfort. Loperamide can be used by both adults and children (with specific dosing), while alosetron is not indicated for men and has more restrictions due to serious gastrointestinal risks. Additionally, loperamide acts quickly, whereas alosetron may take a few weeks to show full effects. Both medications have potential side effects, but alosetron carries a higher risk of severe complications like ischemic colitis.

  • Imodium multi-symptom relief
    Alosetron (Lotronex)
  • Imodium multi-symptom relief
    Alosetron (Lotronex)

  • Summary of Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Summary for Antidiarrheal / Antiflatulent

    Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief is a combination medication that contains loperamide and simethicone. It's used to relieve symptoms of diarrhea and bloating and cramps from gas. Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication, while simethicone helps ease gassiness (flatulence). Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief can be used for people over the age of 6. In general, you can take a tablet after each loose stool (up until the maximum daily dose). Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief is found over the counter as brand-name and generic versions. Side effects aren't common but can include tiredness and dizziness.

    Summary for Antidiarrheal
    Prescription only

    Alosetron (Lotronex) is a serotonin antagonist. It's used to treat severe irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adult females. But alosetron (Lotronex) isn't a first-choice option and is typically only prescribed when other treatments haven't worked well. Alosetron (Lotronex) comes as tablets that are taken by mouth, typically twice a day. Some common side effects include constipation, stomach pain, and nausea. It's available under the brand name Lotronex and as a lower-cost generic.

  • Indications of Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Indications for
    •Diarrhea
    •Bloating and cramps caused by gas
    Indications for
    •Severe irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in females (when other treatment options haven't worked well)

  • Pros and Cons of Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Pros and Const for Antidiarrheal / Antiflatulent
    Pros
    •Tackles both symptoms of diarrhea and gas at the same time
    •Available over the counter as a lower-cost generic
    •Can use in children over 6 years old
    Cons
    •Only available as a tablet taken by mouth
    •Doesn't treat the cause of diarrhea or gas, only the symptoms
    •Not meant for long-term use
    Pros and Const for Antidiarrheal
    Pros
    •Might be a good option if other medications haven't worked for diarrhea
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Not a controlled medication, like some other antidiarrheals
    Cons
    •Not currently FDA approved for males
    •Can't be used in people with serious liver or gut conditions
    •Must be taken twice a day

  • Common Side Effects of Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tiredness
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    Common Side Effects for
    •Constipation (29%)
    •Abdominal discomfort and pain (7%)
    •Nausea (6%)

  • Warnings of Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk for serious heart problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious gut problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Imodium (multi symptom) vs. Alosetron

    Learn more about Imodium multi-symptom relief
    Learn more about Alosetron

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