What is a common indication for Loperamide (Imodium), Diphenoxylate (Lomotil), and Eluxadoline (Viberzi)?

Loperamide, Diphenoxylate, and Eluxadoline are primarily indicated for the management of diarrhea. These medications function by reducing gastrointestinal motility and increasing the time it takes for contents to pass through the intestines, thereby leading to less frequent bowel movements and firmer stools.

Loperamide works by acting on the μ-opioid receptors in the gut, which decreases the propulsive peristaltic waves and increases the transit time. Similarly, Diphenoxylate has opioid-like effects but is combined with atropine to discourage potential abuse. Eluxadoline has a more targeted action, working as a peripherally acting μ-opioid receptor agonist, which helps manage diarrhea, particularly in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).

Though constipation, chronic pain relief, and opioid dependence are important topics in pain management and gastrointestinal health, they do not align with the primary therapeutic uses of these medications. Therefore, the correct indication for these agents is their use in treating diarrhea.