Lomotil

Generic name: Diphenoxylate hydrochloride and atropine sulfate

What is Lomotil?

Lomotil is a combination product used to treat diarrhea.

What is the most important information I should know about Lomotil?

Follow Lomotil dosing instructions strictly. Taking too much Lomotil may result in a suppression of your breathing and coma, possibly leading to brain damage, and even death.

When taking Lomotil, drink adequate fluids as directed by your doctor.

Lomotil is not recommended for use in children under age 2. Keep Lomotil in a child-resistant container and away from children.

Who should not take Lomotil?

You should not take Lomotil if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to Lomotil, have a liver disorder known as obstructive jaundice, or have been diagnosed by your doctor as having diarrhea due to bacteria called pseudomembranous enterocolitis or enterotoxin-producing bacteria.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Lomotil?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Lomotil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have been diagnosed with a condition called ulcerative colitis, have liver and kidney disease or impairment, or you are taking a medication known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults and adolescents over 12 years: The usual starting dose of Lomotil is 2 tablets taken 4 times a day or 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) of Lomotil liquid 4 times per day. Based on your body's response to Lomotil, your doctor may reduce your dose to 2 tablets daily or 10 mL daily.

Children 2 to 12 years: In children under 13 years old, only give Lomotil liquid, do not give Lomotil tablets. The usual starting dose for children is based on age and weight and is given 4 times daily:

2 years/24-31 lbs: 1.5-3 mL; 3 years/26-35 lbs: 2-3 mL; 4 years/31-44 lbs: 2-4 mL; 5 years/35-51 lbs: 2.5-4.5 mL; 6-8 years/38-71 lbs: 2.5-5 mL; 8-12 years: 51-121 lbs: 3.5-5 mL

Your child's doctor may prescribe a lower dose based on your child's symptoms.

How should I take Lomotil?

Take Lomotil exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Space out the dosing times evenly throughout the day and take Lomotil at the same times every day. If using Lomotil liquid for a child, use the plastic dropper provided for measuring and giving doses.

What should I avoid while taking Lomotil?

Until you know how Lomotil affects you, be careful doing activities that require alertness, such as driving a car or operating machinery. Also, avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Lomotil?

If Lomotil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lomotil with any of the following: alcohol, barbiturates (medications such as phenobarbital), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tranquilizers

What are the possible side effects of Lomotil?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: numbness of arms and legs, euphoria, depression, overall sick feeling/lethargy, confusion, tiredness/drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, headache, urinary retention, flushing (redness of the skin), dryness of the mucous membranes or skin, increase in body temperature, rapid beating of the heart

Can I receive Lomotil if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Lomotil during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding; Lomotil is excreted in breast milk and may affect your baby.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lomotil?

If you miss a dose of Lomotil do not double your next dose. Skip the dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

How should I store Lomotil?

Store at room temperature.