Imodium

 Category: Stomach Diseases

Generic name: Loperamide

Imodium tablets or capsules

What is Imodium?

Imodium is a synthetic medication used to treat diarrhea. The active ingredient in Imodium is loperamide hydrochloride which is formulated as oral 2mg tablets as well as chewable tablets and an oral solution.

Drug Uses

Imodium is an effective treatment for diarrhea. It is also used to decrease the amount of excrement in patients who have undergone an ileostomy procedure. Imodium may be used for other conditions.

Dosage

Imodium should be used as detailed on the package insert, or as prescribed by a doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose, or use Imodium for longer than recommended. Imodium should be taken with a full glass of water.

Increase your intake of fluids while using Imodium to avoid dehydration. In addition, ask your pharmacist for an electrolyte replacement solution.

Imodium should not be taken more than three times in a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

Imodium chewable tablets should be properly chewed before swallowing.

If using the oral solution of Imodium, ensure that the bottle is well shaken before dosage. To ensure the correct dose is administered use a proper medical measuring device.

Imodium may take up to 48 hours before symptoms improve.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Precautions

Do not take Imodium if you are allergic to loperamide hydrochloride.

If, after 10 days, there is no improvement in your condition contact a doctor.

Do not use Imodium if you have black or tarry stools, or if your diarrhea is caused by an antibiotic.

Use Imodium with caution if you are running a fever, if you have mucus in your stools, if you have a history of liver disease or if you are taking an antibiotic.

Imodium is not expected to harm an unborn fetus. It is not known if Imodium passes into breast milk, therefore women who are breast-feeding should seek advice from a doctor before using Imodium.

Imodium is not to be administered to children under the age of two years, unless directed by a doctor.

Side-effects

Call for emergency medical assistance if any of the following allergic symptoms occur: difficulty in breathing, hives, or swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat.

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following serious side effects: bloating or stomach pain, continual diarrhea, bloody or watery diarrhea, fever, headache (with severe peeling, blistering or skin rash), or sore throat.

Less serious side-effects include fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, mild stomach pain, constipation, mild skin rash, or itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If any other uncomfortable symptoms occur and persist, contact your doctor.

Overdose

If overdose with Imodium is suspected, get emergency assistance immediately. Symptoms of overdose include drowsiness, dizziness, decreased urination, severe stomach cramps, vomiting, or bloating.

Storage

Imodium should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sun and moisture.