Alternatives to Chlorophyll If You Can't Fill Your Prescription

When You Can't Find Chlorophyll, What Are Your Options?

If you rely on Chlorophyll to manage odor from a colostomy, ileostomy, incontinence, or body odor, not being able to find it can be stressful. Maybe your pharmacy is out of Derifil, or the specific Chlorophyllin product you prefer isn't available. Whatever the reason, knowing your alternatives can help you stay comfortable and confident.

Before we get into alternatives, let's quickly cover what Chlorophyll does — so you can choose an alternative that works the same way.

What Is Chlorophyll?

When used as a medication or supplement, Chlorophyll typically refers to Chlorophyllin Copper Complex — a water-soluble derivative of the green pigment found in plants. It's sold under brand names like Derifil, Nullo, Chloresium, PALS, and Chlorofresh.

The FDA recognizes Chlorophyllin as an OTC internal deodorant for reducing odor from colostomies, ileostomies, and fecal incontinence. It's taken orally, usually 100-200 mg per day, and works by binding to odor-causing compounds in the gastrointestinal tract before they're excreted.

For a deeper dive, check out our full guide: What Is Chlorophyll? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.

How Does Chlorophyll Work?

Chlorophyllin Copper Complex works as an internal deodorant — it doesn't mask odors from the outside but instead neutralizes them from within your body. When you take Chlorophyllin by mouth, it travels through your digestive system and binds to the sulfur-containing and nitrogen-containing compounds that are responsible for foul-smelling stool and gas.

The copper in the Chlorophyllin complex enhances stability, making it more effective than plain Chlorophyll. Some research also suggests it has antioxidant properties that may support detoxification processes in the body.

For more details on how it works, read: How Does Chlorophyll Work? Mechanism of Action Explained.

Alternatives to Chlorophyll for Odor Control

If you can't find Chlorophyll, these alternatives can help manage the same odor issues. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new product, especially if you're managing a medical condition.

1. Bismuth Subgallate (Devrom)

Bismuth Subgallate, sold under the brand name Devrom, is the most direct alternative to Chlorophyllin. Like Chlorophyllin, it's an FDA-recognized OTC internal deodorant specifically indicated for reducing fecal odor from ostomies and incontinence.

How it works: Bismuth Subgallate acts in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent bacteria from producing the compounds that cause stool to smell. It works differently from Chlorophyllin but achieves the same result — reduced fecal and ostomy odor.

Dosage: Typically one to two 200 mg tablets taken with each meal. The recommended dose is 1-2 tablets three times daily.

Pros:

• FDA-recognized for the same indications as Chlorophyllin
• Many patients report it's more effective than Chlorophyllin for ostomy odor
• Doesn't stain — unlike Chlorophyllin, which turns stool and urine green
• Available online and at specialty pharmacies

Cons:

• Can darken stool (which can be alarming but is harmless)
• May cost more than Chlorophyllin supplements ($15-$30 for a 100-count bottle)
• Not as widely stocked at major chain pharmacies

Where to find it: Devrom is available directly from the manufacturer's website, Amazon, and some pharmacies. Use Medfinder to check local availability.

2. Activated Charcoal

Activated Charcoal is a widely available supplement that works by adsorbing (binding to its surface) toxins, gases, and odor-causing compounds in the GI tract.

How it works: Activated Charcoal's porous structure traps gas molecules and chemicals in the gut, reducing the amount of odor-producing substances that pass through your system. It's been used for decades in hospitals for poison management and is also used by many ostomy patients for odor control.

Dosage: Typically 250-500 mg taken with meals or as directed. Some patients use charcoal filter pads placed over their ostomy bag in addition to or instead of oral charcoal.

Pros:

• Very affordable — typically $5-$15 for a bottle of 100+ capsules
• Widely available at virtually every pharmacy, grocery store, and online retailer
• Also helps with gas and bloating

Cons:

• Can interfere with the absorption of other medications — take at least 2 hours apart from other drugs
• May cause constipation in some people
• Turns stool black (harmless but surprising)
• Not specifically FDA-indicated for ostomy odor

3. Simethicone

Simethicone (sold as Gas-X, Mylicon, and generics) is an anti-gas medication that works by breaking up gas bubbles in the gut. While it's not specifically an internal deodorant, reducing gas can help reduce odor for some patients.

How it works: Simethicone is a surfactant that reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles, allowing them to combine and be expelled more easily. This doesn't directly neutralize odor but can reduce the volume of gas that contributes to it.

Dosage: Typically 40-125 mg taken after meals and at bedtime, up to 500 mg per day.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable ($3-$10) and available everywhere
• Very safe with essentially no drug interactions
• Good add-on therapy when used with another internal deodorant

Cons:

• Doesn't directly address fecal odor — primarily targets gas
• Less effective than Chlorophyllin or Bismuth Subgallate for ostomy odor

4. Zinc Supplements

Zinc has been studied for its role in reducing body odor. Some patients take zinc supplements (typically 15-30 mg daily) alongside or instead of Chlorophyllin for general body odor management.

How it works: Zinc has antibacterial properties that may reduce the bacteria responsible for producing body odor. It also plays a role in metabolism and immune function.

Pros:

• Affordable ($5-$15 for a month's supply)
• May offer additional health benefits (immune support, wound healing)
• Easy to find at any pharmacy or store

Cons:

• Not FDA-indicated for ostomy or fecal odor
• Taking too much zinc (over 40 mg/day) can cause nausea and interfere with copper absorption
• Less targeted than Chlorophyllin or Bismuth Subgallate

How to Choose the Right Alternative

The best alternative depends on what you're using Chlorophyll for:

• Ostomy or incontinence odor: Bismuth Subgallate (Devrom) is the closest substitute — same FDA-recognized use, different mechanism.
• General body odor: Activated Charcoal or another Chlorophyllin supplement brand may be your best bet.
• Gas and bloating with odor: Try Simethicone as an add-on to another product.
• Budget-friendly option: Activated Charcoal is the most affordable at $5-$15.

Always consult your doctor before switching products, especially if you take other medications. Activated Charcoal, in particular, can interfere with drug absorption. For more on interactions, see: Chlorophyll Drug Interactions: What to Avoid.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to find Chlorophyll is frustrating, but you're not without options. Bismuth Subgallate (Devrom) is the most direct replacement, while Activated Charcoal offers a budget-friendly alternative. Talk to your healthcare provider about which option is best for your situation.

In the meantime, use Medfinder to check if Chlorophyll is available at a pharmacy near you — it may just be a matter of finding the right store. And for tips on saving money, read: How to Save Money on Chlorophyll in 2026.