Feeling hesitant to take an over-the-counter drug because I know I will develop dependency...do you have any advice?

I know the default answer to these kinds of questions is “ask your doctor” but this is more of a matter of personal choice. I’m not in medical danger.

Several weeks ago I discovered I was dependent on Imodium. Here is a depiction of events, summed up in the form of a rage comic. I was able to wean myself off of it, but now the conundrom I am facing is that I still need Imodium – not because I’m still dependent, but for its, er, intended purpose. This is a long-term situation.

My doctor says it’s absolutely fine to take up to eight pills per day. I know no medical harm will come to me by taking it, but I just feel hesitant to knowingly develop a drug dependency, even to an essentially harmless drug like Imodium. On the other hand, I don’t think there are any viable alternatives. I do not have a colon so dietary changes probably won’t be enough, and I could get dehydrated pretty fast if I just don’t do anything about it.

I guess I just want some advice or reassuring words from the good people of Fluther – have you or a loved one ever had to decide to take something knowing you’d form a dependency? What factors did you weigh in making that decision? Even if you don’t have personal experience, do you have an opinion on my situation? I am also interested in hearing suggestions for alternative options, but you must understand that due to my unique circumstances, other options may not be sufficient.