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Imodium, Imodium A-D, Imotil, Kaopectate Caplet, Maalox Anti-Diarrheal, |Maalox Anti-Diarrheal

Maalox Anti-Diarrheal

Generic Name: loperamide (oral) (loe PER a mide)
Brand Names: Imodium, Imodium A-D, Imotil, Kaopectate Caplet, Maalox Anti-Diarrheal

What is loperamide?

Loperamide slows the rhythm of digestion so that the small intestines have more time to absorb fluid and nutrients from the foods you eat.

Loperamide is used to treat diarrhea. Loperamide is also used to reduce the amount of stool in people who have an ileostomy (re-routing of the bowel through a surgical opening in the stomach).

Loperamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking loperamide?

• stools that are bloody, black, or tarry; or

• if you have diarrhea that is caused by taking an antibiotic.

Before taking loperamide, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• a fever;

• mucus in your stools;

• a history of liver disease; or

• if you are taking an antibiotic.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use loperamide, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

How should I take loperamide?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended.

Loperamide is usually taken at the first sign of diarrhea, and again if diarrhea comes back. The first dose of loperamide is usually twice as much as the following doses. Do not take this medication more than 3 times in 24 hours without your doctor"s advice.

Immodium A-D Liquid and New Immodium A-D Liquid contain two different strengths of loperamide. If you switch from using one brand to using the other, follow the dosing instructions carefully. Immodium A-D Liquid also contains a small amount of alcohol, but New Immodium A-D Liquid does not.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since loperamide is usually taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Symptoms of a loperamide overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, urinating less than usual, severe stomach cramps or bloating, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking loperamide?

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor"s instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, call your doctor. Do not use loperamide to stop the diarrhea unless your doctor has told you to.

Loperamide side effects

• stomach pain or bloating;

• ongoing or worsening diarrhea;

• diarrhea that is watery or bloody; or

• fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash.

Keep taking loperamide and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

• dizziness;

• drowsiness, tired feeling;

• constipation;

• mild stomach pain; or

• mild skin rash or itching.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect loperamide?

Before taking loperamide, tell your doctor if you are also taking saquinavir (Invirase). You may not be able to use loperamide, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs that can affect lopearmide. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about loperamide written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Loperamide is available with a prescription and over-the-counter under several brand and generic names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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