Loperamide
Product Information
Better health begins with the right choices.
Dr. M. Sharoyko
Internal Medicine Physician | MNr. 80134
Dr. Marina Sharoyko is a medical specialist in clinical pharmacology and internal medicine, with additional expertise in cardiology and physiology.
Description
Loperamide is a fast-acting medication used to relieve the symptoms of acute or chronic diarrhoea. It works by slowing down the movement of the gut, allowing more water and electrolytes to be absorbed from the bowel. This results in firmer stools and fewer trips to the toilet, helping to restore comfort and stability during bouts of diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral or bacterial infections, food intolerance, stress, or chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. Loperamide does not treat the underlying cause but is highly effective in reducing the urgency and frequency of bowel movements. For many people, it brings rapid relief within an hour after taking the first dose.
Loperamide is often used as a short-term solution for travellers’ diarrhoea, sudden digestive upset, or mild food-related reactions. It can also be helpful for individuals managing chronic diarrhoea due to long-term conditions, under medical supervision.
Side effects are generally mild and may include constipation, stomach cramps, or dizziness. It should not be used when diarrhoea is caused by certain infections, or when there is a high fever or blood in the stool, as slowing the gut may worsen those conditions.
General Information
Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication designed to reduce bowel movements and improve stool consistency by slowing intestinal motility.
It is commonly used for acute diarrhea episodes, traveler’s diarrhea, and can also help individuals with chronic diarrhea due to certain health conditions. It addresses the symptom rather than the cause.
By acting on opioid receptors in the gut, Loperamide decreases peristalsis, which allows more time for fluid absorption. This leads to less frequent, more formed bowel movements.
Adults often start with an initial dose of 4 mg (usually two tablets of 2 mg each), followed by 2 mg after each subsequent loose stool. The total daily dose typically should not exceed 8 mg for short-term use without medical supervision.
Many people experience relief within an hour of the first dose, with notable improvement in stool consistency and frequency after a few doses.
Take Loperamide only when needed to manage diarrhea. If following a schedule, take your missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next one. Do not double up.
Safety & Side Effects
Common side effects include constipation, dizziness, and abdominal cramping. Serious but uncommon effects include fainting or heart rhythm changes, particularly at higher-than-recommended doses.
Allergic reactions are possible but rare. Signs include rash, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties. If these occur, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.
Caution is advised when combining Loperamide with certain prescription drugs (like some antibiotics or antifungals) that can affect its metabolism. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
Occasional use is generally safe. Chronic use should be supervised by a healthcare professional to monitor for potential complications or underlying conditions needing different treatment.
It may be used under medical supervision during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks. Small amounts may pass into breast milk, so discuss with your healthcare provider before use.
Alcohol may increase dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. Moderation is advised to avoid exacerbating these side effects, especially if you are prone to dehydration from diarrhea.
Usage & Administration
Swallow the capsule or tablet whole with water, following the dose instructions on the package or as directed by a doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Store Loperamide in its original container at room temperature. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, and out of reach of children.
It can be taken with or without food. Some people find taking it with a small amount of food can reduce the likelihood of stomach upset.
Overuse can lead to constipation, bloating, or, in severe cases, heart rhythm disturbances. Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you suspect an overdose or experience irregular heartbeat.
Individuals with bloody or tarry stools, diarrhea caused by certain bacterial infections (e.g., Clostridioides difficile), or known hypersensitivity to Loperamide should avoid it. Consult a doctor if diarrhea is persistent or severe.
Most Loperamide tablets can be swallowed whole or sometimes chewed, depending on the formulation. Check the product instructions or ask a pharmacist before altering a tablet.
Ordering & Delivery
To get [Product name], fill out a medical form or book a video consult with a doctor via Transtoyou. After approval, your prescription is sent to the pharmacy for fast delivery.
[Product name] requires a valid prescription, which is issued after the doctor reviewed your answered in the medical questionnaire or via a video consultation with the doctor.
After approval by a doctor from Transtoyou, the prescription of [Product name] is forwarded to an affiliated pharmacy and typically shipped within 1–2 working days.
For safety and legal reasons prescription medication (RX) and in this case [Product name] is non-returnable once shipped.
