HomeAnswersMedical GastroenterologydiarrheaWhy am I having loose stools on and off very often for six months now?

I am having loose stools on and off very often for six months now. Please help.

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sneha Kannan

Published At July 27, 2020
Reviewed AtDecember 18, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 17-year-old female. My height is 5 feet 4 inches, and my weight is 215 lbs. I am having constant loose stools. This has been on and off very often for up to six months now. I take Adderall, Intuniv, Zoloft, and a pill for acid reflux. Please give me a solution.

Answered by Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

After reviewing your medication profile, Zoloft (Sertraline) and, to some extent, Adderall (Amphetamine) and Intuniv (Guanfacine) cause gastrointestinal upset. A common adverse effect of Zoloft is diarrhea. Secondly, these medications tend to increase body weight and drug dependence, in other words, addiction. Since your weight seems to be too high, I want you to consult the doctor who prescribed you these medications and minimize or stop the medication if not required. Since the loose stools are secondary to drug side effects, the management of diarrhea in your case would be to eliminate those potential medications. You can start taking Ispagol (Psyllium husk) in cold water. It can cause bloating, so if you think you can tolerate it, try it; otherwise, not. There are certain medications that you can use for diarrhea, but they also contain some drug dependence. You can try tablet Lomotil (Diphenoxylate and Atropine) two tablets three times daily. But do not take for more than three days for now. Weight reduction, exercise, avoidance of high-risk medications are all the key to a healthy lifestyle. I hope this will help. Thanks.

The Probable causes

Drug induced diarrhea. Obesity

Treatment plan

Stop Zoloft and consider stopping other medications.

Regarding follow up

Follow up if required.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ajeet Kumar
Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Medical Gastroenterology

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