Travelers' diarrhea: what can you do?

Travelers' diarrhea is a common complaint during vacations, especially in warm countries. Diarrhea is often caused by contaminated food or water. Fortunately, you can do a lot yourself to limit symptoms. We are happy to help you with advice and reliable medicines.

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Why not stop diarrhea right away?

Diarrhea is your body's way of getting rid of pathogens. Stopping diarrhea with inhibitor medication (such as loperamide) seems convenient, but it can actually keep the bacteria in your gut longer. As a result, you may stay sick longer. So use these drugs only when really necessary, for example during a long trip without a toilet nearby.

(source: apotheek.nl

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What can you use? Self-care products

The most important treatment for diarrhea is to replenish fluids and salts. You can do that with ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts).

ORS: the basics for diarrhea

Contains glucose, sodium and potassium
Is well absorbed by your body, even with diarrhea
Prevents dehydration in young and old
Available in powder or ready-to-use solution

You can buy ORS from us without a prescription. Note: Do not use sports drinks or cola as a substitute. These do not contain the correct ratio of salts and sugars.

Other self-care drugs

Loperamide: inhibits bowel movement. Use only temporarily (max. 2 days), and not in cases of fever or bloody diarrhea.
Probiotics: there is limited evidence that some types can help to slightly shorten the duration of diarrhea, but this is not always proven effective.
Diarrhea inhibitors combined with simeticon: against cramps and flatulence, but with limited effect.

(source: knmp.co.uk)

Prescription medication

In some cases, you can also get prescription medication from your doctor or pharmacist for emergencies:

Antibiotics (e.g. azithromycin or ciprofloxacin): For travelers to high-risk areas with high risk of bacterial infections only. Not intended for general use.
Travel prescription for high-risk travel (e.g., to remote areas): Discuss with your doctor or pharmacy well before you leave.

(source: rijksoverheid.nl)

Do's and don'ts for traveler's diarrhea

Do's:

Always carry ORS in your travel-pharmacy
Drink plenty of water and keep eating, even if in small bites
Consult a doctor in case of fever, blood in the stool or persistent symptoms
Refer to your pharmacy for personalized advice tailored to your health

Don'ts:

Don't use loperamide if you have a fever or bloody diarrhea
Don't stop diarrhea right away, let your body clear up the infection first
Don't give diarrhea inhibitors to young children without consultation
Don't think ORS is unnecessary: dehydration happens faster than you think

What does the pharmacy do?

As a pharmacy, we make sure you are well prepared for your trip. We:

Compose a travel pharmacy with you
Advise on the proper use of ORS, loperamide and other medications
Explain when you may or may not use diarrhea inhibitors
Provide customized care for chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, so you can travel safely

Go prepared for travel

Travel diarrhea is annoying, but with the right self-care remedies you can manage it well. The pharmacy will help you with personalized advice and reliable resources. Make sure ORS and possibly loperamide are in your suitcase, and ask our advice on prescription medication for high-risk travel.