Korean J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr.  2009 Nov;12(Suppl 1):S93-S97.

The Rational Use of Drugs in the Management of Diarrhea in Children

• Yom HW

Abstract

Worldwide, diarrhea remains one of the most common illnesses among children. Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is the cornerstone of diarrhea treatment. Yet, the rates at which ORT is used are still disappointingly low. Additional treatment interventions include antimotility drugs, antisecretary drugs, adsorbents, probiotics, antibiotics, oral immunoglobulin, micronutrient supplementation. Drugs are generally not necessary. However, selected probiotics may reduce the duration and intensity of diarrhea. Zinc is beneficial especially to malnourished children with diarrhea. Antibiotic treatment is effective mainly in shigella and cholera infection. Other drugs may be effective but require further investigations.

Keyword

Diarrhea; Children; Drugs

MeSH Terms

Anti-Bacterial Agents
Child
Cholera
Diarrhea
Fluid Therapy
Humans
Immunoglobulins
Micronutrients
Probiotics
Shigella
Zinc
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Immunoglobulins
Micronutrients
Zinc