Uses

Imodium (loperamide) helps in preventing and treating that helps you to ease 2 different types of diarrhea. If you are diagnosed with short-term diarrhoea caused by IBS, this medicine can help reduce and erase the symptoms of diarrhea and reduce the number of times you need to go toilet.

Dosage

For adults

The recommended initial usage is 4mg that is 2 capsules, followed by 1 tablet after unformed stool. The daily intake of medicine should not exceed 16mg, which is 8 capsules.

The clinical improvement is usually improving with the first 48 hours.

For children

In children of age 2 to 5 years who weigh 20kgs or less, they should use liquid formulation.

For ages of 6- 12 years, you can use either Imodium capsules or liquid formulation. Here is the initial dosage schedule

Two to five years = 1 mg x3 i.e. 3mg daily dose (13 to 20 kg)
Six to eight years = 2 mg x2. i.e. 4mg daily dose (20 to 30 kg)
Eight to twelve years = 2mg x3, i.e. 6mg daily dose (greater than 30 kg)

Side effects

Here are some side effects that you might get to experience when taking this medicine.

•         Tiredness

•         Drowsiness

•         Dizziness

•         Constipation

•         Stomach pain

•         Itching

•         Skin rash 

If any of these effects get worsens or persists, then immediately consult your doctor.

When not to use

This medication is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to drugs

Formula

Loperamide

Precautions

•         Not advised to patients diagnosed with certain medical conditions like stomach, abdominal pain without diarrhea, bowel obstruction like ileus, megacolon, abdominal distention.

•         If you are pregnant, please discuss with your doctor before you intake this medicine. 

•         Drink plenty of water and minerals, as it can cause severe dehydration. So, you are advised to drink plenty of fluids.