How does loperamide work?
Loperamide slows down digestion, allowing the intestines to absorb more water from stools, making them firmer and reducing the number of bowel movements.
What is loperamide used to treat?
Loperamide is commonly used for:
- Short-term diarrhoea (due to illness or food poisoning)
- IBS-related diarrhoea
- Chronic diarrhoea (in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease)
- Reducing stool frequency after bowel surgery
Who can take loperamide?
Loperamide is suitable for most adults and children over 12 years old. In some cases, it may be prescribed for younger children under medical supervision.
Who might not be able to take loperamide?
Loperamide may not be suitable if you:
- Have severe diarrhoea with a high fever or blood in your stools
- Have a gut infection like Clostridium difficile
- Have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in a severe flare-up
- Are constipated or have a blocked bowel
- Have had an allergic reaction to loperamide before
Can I take loperamide if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Loperamide isn’t usually recommended during pregnancy, but it may be used under medical supervision. It is safe while breastfeeding as only small amounts pass into breast milk.
What if I miss a dose?
Loperamide is usually taken as needed, so missing a dose isn’t usually an issue. If you are on a prescribed dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take extra to make up for a missed dose.
How effective is loperamide?
Loperamide works quickly, often within one hour, to slow bowel movements and relieve diarrhoea symptoms.
What should I do if I take too much?
Taking too much loperamide can be dangerous, leading to serious heart problems, drowsiness, or difficulty breathing. If you think you’ve taken too much, seek medical help immediately.
What dose of loperamide is usually taken?
- For short-term diarrhoea: 2mg after each loose stool, up to a maximum of 8mg per day
- For IBS-related diarrhoea: 2mg once or twice daily, adjusted as needed
- For chronic diarrhoea: Prescribed dose varies based on symptoms
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What are the side effects of loperamide?
Common side effects include:
Serious side effects, such as severe bloating, allergic reactions, or irregular heartbeat, require urgent medical attention.
How should I take loperamide?
Loperamide is taken as tablets, capsules, or liquid, usually after a loose stool. It should be swallowed whole with water.
When should loperamide be taken?
Loperamide should be taken only when needed, unless your doctor has advised a regular dose for a long-term condition.
What are the brand names for loperamide?
Loperamide is available as a generic medicine, but some branded versions include:
- Imodium
- Diarrest
Final thoughts
Loperamide is an effective treatment for diarrhoea, but it should not be used for prolonged periods without medical advice. If diarrhoea lasts more than 48 hours, or if you experience severe side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
