Loperamide

Loperamide is a medication used to treat diarrhea, whether it's a short-term issue, related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or associated with chronic conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and short bowel syndrome. Additionally, individuals with a colostomy may use loperamide to thicken their stool by slowing down the passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract.

This medicine is available over the counter at pharmacies and supermarkets and can also be obtained with a prescription for certain bowel conditions. Loperamide comes in various forms, including tablets, melting tablets (Imodium Instants or Imodium Instant Melts), capsules, and a prescription-only liquid.

For those experiencing diarrhea accompanied by painful stomach cramps and bloating, loperamide can be combined with simeticone, a medication that addresses flatulence or excessive gas. The combination of loperamide and simethicone is found in products such as Imodium Plus Caplets and Imodium Plus Comfort Tablets, offering relief for diarrhea and associated symptoms.

What are the uses of Loperamide?

Loperamide is primarily used to treat diarrhea, and it can be beneficial for various types of diarrhea, including:

• Short-Term Diarrhea: Loperamide is effective in providing relief from acute or short-term episodes of diarrhea, often caused by infections, dietary issues, or other temporary factors.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): It can be used to manage diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.
• Chronic Diarrhea from Bowel Conditions: Loperamide is utilized for recurring or longer-lasting diarrhea associated with chronic bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and short bowel syndrome.
• Thickening Stool in Colostomy Patients: Individuals with a colostomy (an opening in the stomach for collecting feces) may use loperamide to thicken their stool, which is particularly helpful in managing this condition.
• Combined with Simeticone for Flatulence: Loperamide is sometimes combined with simeticone to address diarrhea accompanied by painful stomach cramps and bloating. This combination is found in products like Imodium Plus Caplets and Imodium Plus Comfort Tablets.

How and when to take Loperamide?

The typical Loperamide dosage for children varies according to their age and weight. Always adhere to the label's instructions when administering Loperamide to a child. 

Take Loperamide with a glass full of water. Your body may lose electrolytes and fluids as a result of diarrhoea. So keep yourself hydrated if you have diarrhoea. 

• If you are taking a capsule, ensure it is taken whole
• Shake the oral suspension before each dose before having. Also, use pharmaceutical dose-measuring equipment 
• The strengths of Loperamide's various liquid formulations vary. Therefore, pay close attention to all dosage directions for your medication.

What are the side effects of Loperamide?

The following are the side effects of Loperamide -

• Difficulty in passing urine
• Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin
• Decrease in urination 
• Irregular or slow heartbeat
• Fast, pounding, or abnormal pulse
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Chills and coughs
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Rashes, itching, hives
• Stopping of heart
• Unusual weakness and excessive weakness

Loperamide can cause an increase in the risk of stomach or bowel problems. This medicine can also cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis which is often life-threatening and requires medical attention. Always see a doctor if you have a fever, loss of appetite, vomiting or nausea, or stomach pain.  

What precautions should be taken?

Avoid using it if you are allergic to Loperamide or notice the following symptoms:

• IBD with ulcers
• Faeces that are sticky, red, or black
• Stomach cramps without a tummy ache
• Diarrhoea and a high temperature
• Diarrhoea brought on by an infection with germs

Also, consult your healthcare provider before using Loperamide to treat diarrhoea caused by antibiotics. In addition, Loperamide should not be administered to children under the age of two. 

Moreover, consult a physician or pharmacist about the safety of using Loperamide if you have the following -

• Fever
• Liver illness
• Arrhythmia
• Your stool contains mucus

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before using this medication.

Dosage forms of Loperamide

Loperamide are available in various dosage forms to accommodate different preferences and patient needs. The common dosage forms include:

• Tablets: Loperamide tablets are a standard and widely used form. They are taken orally with water and are available in different strengths.
• Melt Tablets: Some formulations come in the form of tablets that melt on the tongue.
• Capsules: Loperamide is also available in capsule form, which is swallowed with water. Capsules may have specific formulations to control the release of the medication.
• Liquid: A liquid formulation of loperamide is available, typically for prescription use. The liquid form is useful in situations where swallowing tablets or capsules may be challenging, especially for children or individuals with difficulty swallowing.

What if I missed the dose of Loperamide?

If you miss a dose of Loperamide, take it as soon as possible. But if your next dosage time is nearing, continue your daily scheduled dose and skip the missed one. However, avoid missing the dosage for better healing. Also, remember not to double the dosage. 

What if I overdose on Loperamide?

Loperamide is best when taken as prescribed. Too much Loperamide can cause heart problems. For acute and chronic diarrhoea, the typical adult dosage of Loperamide is 4 mg after the first loose stool and 2 mg after each unformed stool. No more than 16 mg or 8 capsules should be taken each day.

What are the storage conditions of Loperamide?

Loperamide must be stored in a closed container at room temperature. Keep the medicine away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Also, avoid keeping the medicine at a freezing temperature. 

Caution with other medicines

Taking Loperamide with other medicines might also cause harm. The interaction with Loperamide with other medicines can increase the risk of abnormal heartbeat or arrhythmia. 

How quickly does Loperamide show results?

Loperamide works within 30 minutes of taking it and can be effective for 8-12 hours. Therefore, taking Loperamide 30 minutes after a meal is better. However, the right timing will be prescribed by the doctor. 

Loperamide Vs Ofloxacin

If you take Loperamide, you must take it as the doctor prescribes. It might cause severe side effects if taken without a doctor's prescription. Also, if diarrhoea does not stop after taking this, do not increase the dosage alone. Talk to your doctor first. 

Faqs

1. Is loperamide safe to take daily?

Loperamide is generally considered safe for short-term use to alleviate symptoms of diarrhea. However, using it daily for an extended period may not be suitable without medical supervision. Prolonged use without addressing the underlying cause of diarrhea may mask potential health issues. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on the appropriate duration and frequency of loperamide use.

2. Can I take loperamide without food?

Loperamide can be taken with or without food, as it is generally well-tolerated. However, individual responses may vary, and if stomach upset occurs, taking it with food might be preferable.

3. Can loperamide be used for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Loperamide is sometimes used to manage diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, its use for IBS should be under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it primarily addresses diarrhea symptoms and may not be suitable for all individuals with IBS, especially those with constipation-predominant symptoms.

4. Can loperamide be taken with antibiotics?

Loperamide is not typically known to interact adversely with antibiotics. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that there are no specific contraindications or interactions with the particular antibiotics prescribed.

5. Are loperamide and Ofloxacin both the same?

No, loperamide and Ofloxacin are different medications with distinct uses. Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication used to treat diarrhea, while Ofloxacin is an antibiotic that is effective against various bacterial infections. They serve different purposes and are not interchangeable. Always follow the prescribed medications and dosages provided by a healthcare professional.

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Loperamide/#:~:text=Loperamide%20is%20a%20medicine%20to,colitis%20and%20short%20bowel%20syndrome. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682280.html

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.