Medicine for Diarrhea in Infants

Diarrhea is particularly difficult for infants to tolerate. It can be very hard to accurately diagnose "infant diarrhea," due to the frequency and consistency of infant stools.

  1. Definition

    • Because infant stools are typically watery and loose, infant diarrhea is diagnosed differently than in children and adults. Look for an extreme increase in frequency (half again or twice as often as usual) and a change in the color, odor and overall consistency of the stool.

    Significance

    • Infants become dehydrated much more quickly than adults. While infant diarrhea is not usually a cause for concern by itself, make sure your baby is getting enough fluids.

    Oral Electrolytes

    • Give electrolyte solutions, such as Pedialyte, to your baby if she is experiencing four or more rounds of diarrhea each day and is otherwise acting normal. These solutions can be given alone or substituted for half the water when mixing formula.

    Probiotics

    • Probiotics, such as acidophilus, help the "good bacteria" in the intestines thrive and have been shown to diminish the symptoms and severity of diarrhea. Probiotic capsules or formula containing probiotics are available at most drug stores.

    Hospitalization

    • Anti-diarrheal medications are given in a hospital, when the diarrhea has become severe (more than ten times per day). If this is necessary, your infant will receive an IV to keep him hydrated and, possibly, an antibiotic to kill the bacteria causing it.

    Call Your Doctor

    • If your infant is very young (under 6 months), has a fever or has become dehydrated, lethargic or overly fussy, you should consult your pediatrician as soon as possible.

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