Uses

Controls symptoms of acute nonspecific diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea. Reduces stool frequency and improves stool consistency.

Do not use if

Do not use in patients with bloody or black stools. Avoid in patients with acute dysentery or conditions where inhibition of peristalsis may be harmful. Contraindicated in children under 2 years of age.

Side effects

May cause constipation, abdominal cramping, nausea, and dizziness. Serious cardiac arrhythmias can occur with doses exceeding the recommended amount.

Warnings

Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious heart problems including fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Use caution in patients with liver disease. Discontinue if abdominal distension or bloating occurs. Do not use if patient has fever, mucus in stool, or history of significant bowel disease without medical evaluation.

How it works

Loperamide is a synthetic opioid receptor agonist that acts on mu-opioid receptors in the gut wall, reducing intestinal motility and prolonging transit time. It also decreases intestinal secretion and increases anal sphincter tone without significant central nervous system effects at therapeutic doses.

Storage

Store at 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F). Do not use if blister packaging is broken or torn.