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|Imodium

Imodium

Generic name: Loperamide hydrochloride
Brand names: Imodium

Why is Imodium prescribed?

Imodium controls symptoms of diarrhea, including Traveler"s Diarrhea. It works by slowing the activity of the intestines and affecting the movement of water and chemicals through the bowel. It can be purchased over the counter in liquid and capsule form under the brand name Imodium A-D.

Most important fact about Imodium

If your diarrhea does not stop after a couple of days, or your symptoms get worse, notify your doctor immediately.

How should you take Imodium?

Do not take more than the prescribed dose of Imodium.

Imodium may cause dryness of the mouth. Sucking on a hard candy or chewing gum can help relieve the problem.

--If you miss a dose...

Take only after each loose stool as directed.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects reported from the use of Imodium are difficult to distinguish from symptoms associated with diarrhea. Those reported, however, were more commonly observed during the treatment of long-lasting diarrhea.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal distention, abdominal pain or discomfort, allergic reactions, including skin rash, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, tiredness

Why should Imodium not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Imodium, you should not take Imodium. Avoid it, too, if you have black or bloody stools.

Special warnings about Imodium

If you suffer from a liver condition, have a fever, or have mucus in the stool, check with your doctor before using Imodium.

Too much Imodium may cause drowsiness and/or dizziness. You should exercise extra caution while driving or performing tasks requiring mental alertness.

Dehydration can be a problem when you have diarrhea. It is important that you drink plenty of fluids while taking Imodium.

Use special caution when giving Imodium to a young child. Response to the drug can be unpredictable.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Imodium

There are no reported food or drug interactions.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Imodium during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or want to breastfeed, check with your doctor.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

For adults and children 12 and over, the usual dosage is 2 caplets or 4 teaspoonfuls after the first loose stool, then 1 caplet or 2 teaspoonfuls after each loose stool that follows. Take no more than 4 caplets or 8 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

CHILDREN

Ages 9 to 11 (60 to 95 pounds)

The usual dosage is 1 caplet or 2 teaspoonfuls after the first loose stool, then 1/2 caplet or 1 teaspoonful after each loose stool that follows. Give no more than 3 caplets or 6 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

Ages 6 to 8 (48 to 59 pounds)

The usual dosage is 1 caplet or 2 teaspoonfuls after the first loose stool, then 1/2 caplet or 1 teaspoonful after each loose stool that follows. Give no more than 2 caplets or 4 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

Ages 2 to 5 (24 to 47 pounds)

The usual dosage is 1 teaspoonful after the first loose stool, then 1 teaspoonful after each loose stool that follows. Give no more than 3 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

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

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an Imodium overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of an Imodium overdose may include:
  Constipation, drowsiness, lethargy, nausea