Health Tip: Some Shouldn't Take Antidiarrheal Drugs Who should
avoid these medications (HealthDay News) -- Loperamide and
bismuth subsalicylate are over-the-counter drugs designed to
help people with diarrhea feel better. The American Academy of
Family Physicians says while they're safe for most people, not
everyone should take these medicines. Among those who should
avoid the drugs: - Children aged 6 or younger should avoid
loperamide; 12 or younger should avoid bismuth subsalicylate. -
Anyone with a fever, bloody or black stools, or prior allergic
reaction to the drug should avoid loperamide. - Anyone who has
an allergy to aspirin or salicylate medications should avoid
bismuth subsalicylate. - Anyone aged 12 to 18 who could have the
chickenpox or flu also should avoid bismuth subsalicylate.