Loperamide
Conditions Treated
Loperamide is used to control diarrhea. It is available with or without a prescription. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Loperamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- vomiting
- stomach pain, discomfort, or distention (enlargement)
- constipation
- fatigue
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- hives
- itching
- wheezing
- difficulty breathing
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Loperamide comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken immediately after each loose bowel movement; it is sometimes taken on a schedule (one or more times a day) for chronic diarrhea. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take loperamide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve within 2 days (10 days for chronic diarrhea) or if you develop a fever or bloody stools, call your doctor. Drink plenty of water or other beverages to replace fluids lost while having diarrhea.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking loperamide, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to loperamide or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking. tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have a fever. you should know that this drug may make you drowsy and dizzy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you. remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Diamode®
- Diar-Aid®
- Imodium®
- Imotil®
- K-Pek II®
- Kao-Paverin®
- Kaopectate 1-D®
- Maalox® Anti-Diarrheal
- Pepto® Diarrhea Control
- Imodium® Advanced (as a combination product containing Loperamide, Simethicone)
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
If you are taking scheduled doses of loperamide, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about taking this medicine. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.