Defined as two or more loose stools per day, diarrhea may be caused by some types of chemotherapy, including:

You should report persistent diarrhea to your doctor or nurse.

If you are experiencing diarrhea, it is very important to drink plenty of fluids such as water. You can also increase your intake of drinks such as Gatorade or Pedialyte, an over-the-counter solution made for infants that can be used by adults as well. These drinks provide electrolytes — the body’s salts that must stay in balance in order for cells to work properly. Occasionally, intravenous fluids are needed if the diarrhea is especially severe.

Over-the-counter medicines and prescription treatments are available for diarrhea, but you should only use them if they are necessary.

The most recommended over-the-counter medicine for diarrhea is Imodium AD. In general, if the diarrhea is bad enough for you to need a medicine, including an over-the-counter one, you should discuss the diarrhea and treatment with your doctor or nurse. If your diarrhea is caused by chemotherapy you may need to take dosages that differ from what recommended for over-the-counter use. Your doctor or nurse will be able to instruct you on the necessary dosage you need.

Your doctor may need to prescribe something stronger, such as diphenoxylate and atropine (Lomotil and others). Like all drugs, these products can interact with other drugs you may be taking, such as opiate pain relievers. For severe diarrhea that does not respond to these oral medications, your doctor may consider giving you injections of octreotide (Sandostatin and others).

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