Imodium

Generic name: Loperamide hydrochloride

What is Imodium?

Imodium is used to treat diarrhea. Imodium is also available in several over-the-counter forms.

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

If you are taking Imodium for acute diarrhea, tell your doctor if you develop a fever, if you notice blood or mucus in your stools, if you develop abdominal swelling or bulging, or if your symptoms do not improve within 2 days. For chronic diarrhea, tell your doctor if there is no improvement after 10 days.

It is important to maintain adequate hydration during treatment.

Who should not take Imodium?

Do not take Imodium if you are sensitive to any component of the drug, if you have abdominal pain without diarrhea, or if you have blood in your stools and a fever higher than 101 degrees.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Imodium. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a condition that could be complicated by constipation, inflammation or irritation of the intestines or colon, liver disease, blood or mucus in the stool, or if you have a fever of 101°F or higher.

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 children 12 years and older: The usual dosage is 2 capsules after your first loose bowel movement and 1 capsule after each loose movement thereafter. Do not take more than 8 capsules in 24 hours.

Children 8-12 years who weigh more than 66 pounds: The usual dosage is 1 capsule taken 3 times a day after the first loose stool. Do not give more than 3 capsules in 24 hours.

Children 6-8 years who weigh 44-66 pounds: The usual dosage is 1 capsule taken 2 times a day after the first loose stool. Do not give more than 2 capsules in 24 hours.

Children 2-5 years who weigh 28-44 pounds: The nonprescription liquid formulation (Imodium A-D 1 milligram/5 milliliters) should be used.

Imodium is not recommended in children under 2 years of age.

How should I take Imodium?

Take Imodium exactly as directed. Take the capsules with 4 to 8 ounces of water.

Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water or other clear liquids until your diarrhea stops.

What should I avoid while taking Imodium?

Imodium may cause tiredness, drowsiness, or dizziness. Be careful when driving or operating machinery.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Imodium?

If Imodium 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 Imodium with quinidine, ritonavir, or saquinavir.

What are the possible side effects of Imodium?

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: abdominal pain, constipation, dry mouth, gas, nausea, vomiting, increased blood sugar, dizziness

Can I receive Imodium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Imodium during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Small amounts of Imodium may appear in breast milk. Avoid using Imodium if you are breastfeeding.

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

If Imodium is taken on a regular schedule and a dose is missed, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Imodium?

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.