What is Loperamide?
Loperamide is a medication used for the relief of acute diarrhea and the management of chronic diarrhea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Its efficacy is comparable to that of another anti-diarrheal, diphenoxylate (Lomotil). Loperamide helps reduce diarrhea by slowing the movement of the bowel muscles. Although loperamide is chemically related to narcotics like morphine, it has no pain-relieving effects, even at high doses.
Loperamide Uses
Loperamide is used to treat diarrhea by slowing down the movement of the gut. This decreases the number of bowel movements and makes stools less watery. It’s also used to reduce discharge in patients who have undergone an ileostomy and to treat ongoing diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Constipation
- Fatigue
Major Side Effects:
- Rash
- Peeling
- Blistering skin
- Hives
- Itching
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Stomach pain
- Swelling
- Bloody stools
If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Most people do not experience side effects, but seek medical help if you do.
Precautions
- Before taking loperamide, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it or other medications. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
- Do not use this medication if you have certain medical conditions. Consult your doctor if you have:
- Stomach pain
- Abdominal pain
- Bowel obstruction
How to Take Loperamide
Loperamide is available as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to be taken orally. Non-prescription loperamide is usually taken after each loose bowel movement and should not exceed the maximum 24-hour dosage on the label. Prescription loperamide may be taken on a schedule as advised by your doctor.
Dosage for Loperamide
Adult Dosage:
- Initial dose: 4 mg followed by 2 mg per loose stool
- Maximum daily dose: 16 mg (8 mg if self-medicating)
- Chronic diarrhea: 4-8 mg per day after control is achieved
Children:
- Acute Diarrhea:
- Age 8 to 12 years: 2 mg three times a day
- Age 6 to 8 years: 2 mg twice a day
- Chronic Diarrhea:
Missed Dose
Missing one or two doses of loperamide typically doesn’t cause any issues. However, take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it’s near the time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
An overdose of loperamide can cause serious effects. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies on loperamide in pregnant women, but animal studies with high doses have not shown significant adverse effects on the fetus. Doctors may recommend loperamide during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh potential risks.
Storage
- Store at room temperature (68°F 77°F / 20°C 25°C)
- Keep away from heat, air, and light
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Properly dispose of expired or unused medication
Loperamide vs Dicyclomine
| Loperamide | Dicyclomine |
|---|---|
| Used for the relief of acute diarrhea and management of chronic diarrhea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. | Belongs to the anticholinergics class, used to relieve muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract by blocking the activity of certain natural substances. |
| Slows down gut movement, decreasing the number of bowel movements and making stools less watery. | Used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, reducing stomach and intestinal cramps. |
Major Side Effects:
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Serious Side Effects:
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