Loperamide (Brand name Imodium) is a drug used to treat diarrhea. This drug is available with a prescription or over the counter.
How should it be used?
This drug is available in liquid, tablet, or capsule form.
Some patients may only take this medicine when they get diarrhea. Other patients take this medicine daily to treat chronic (reoccurring) diarrhea.
Drink plenty of liquids while taking this medicine.
Special Precautions/Instructions
Tell your doctor about ANY medications (including over-the-counter) herbal supplements, or vitamins you are taking.
Tell your doctor before using this medication if you:
- Have ever had an allergic reaction to Imodium or any other drugs
- Have a fever
- Have bloody or black stools or mucous in the stool
- Are taking antibiotics
- Have ever had liver disease
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or breast feeding.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while on this medication until you know how the drug affects you.
Side Effects
The following are some of the most common side effects of Imodium. Contact the doctor if any of these do not go away or are severe:
- vomiting
- dry mouth
- dizziness, drowsiness
- stomach pain/enlargement
- constipation, or
- fatigue.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects:
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Difficulty Breathing
- Wheezing
When to Stop Taking the Medicine
Contact your doctor if your symptoms get worse, you have diarrhea for more than two days, or you have abdominal swelling or bulging.
Storage Conditions
Store this medication at room temperature and away from heat or moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Additional Information
For complete information about this drug, please visit: www.imodium.com