How to Stop Diarrhea After Stopping Pain Meds

Long-term use of pain medication, especially those with narcotics such as hydrocodone, commonly cause constipation. Unfortunately, the opposite problem of diarrhea often occurs as a result of discontinuing the pain medication if the patient is not slowly weaned from the pain medication. It is essential to one's health to treat the diarrhea as soon as possible to prevent health complications such as dehydration.

Instructions

• 1

  Stop taking pain medication gradually, if possible. Tapering off of pain medication as opposed to discontinuing it all at once will be more gentle to the digestive system, reducing the chances of diarrhea.

• 2

  Consume an adequate amount of fiber on a daily basis to ensure that your digestive tract has enough bulk to pass your stool properly. Most adults need 20mg to 25mg of fiber per day. If you are not eating that amount, gradually increase your fiber intake by 3mg every three days until you reach the recommended amount. Ideally, ensure that you are consuming this amount of fiber consistently before discontinuing the pain medication.

• 3

  Take bismuth subsalicylate, the medication in Pepto-Bismol, to ease the diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate is an over-the-counter medication that can be purchased at nearly any pharmacy. This medication works by reducing inflammation in the intestines and regulating the way in which liquid passes through the digestive tract.

• 4

  Eat the BRAT diet -- bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast -- to give your digestive system a break if the diarrhea continues for more than a day.

• 5

  Stop consuming anything other than clear liquids if your diarrhea is severe. Clear liquids include gelatin, apple juice, broth, water, tea, and popsicles. This allows the digestive system to rest fully after discontinuing the pain medication.

• 6

  Consult a physician if your diarrhea is especially severe or does not subside within 72 hours. If your diarrhea does not subside, you may need an anti-diarrheal medication prescribed by your doctor.