Furazolidone has anti-bacterial and anti-protozoal actions. In the treatment of diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, it is given orally as tablets or suspension. Loperamide inhibits peristalsis and is used in the treatment of some diarrhoeas. 

Diphenoxylate, an antidiarrhoeal drug, is chemically related to the narcotic analgesic pethidine.  Narcotic analgesics may cause respiratory depression in the newborn infant.  This drug should not be given at, or near, term.