Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

LOPERAMIDE - ORAL LIQUID

(low-PAIR-uh-mide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imodium A-D, K-Pek II

Uses

This medication is used to treat diarrhea or to reduce the amount of discharge in patients who have undergone an ileostomy.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth exactly as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this longer than two days without your doctor's approval. Notify your doctor if diarrhea does not stop after two days. While taking this medication, drink plenty of clear liquids to replace fluid loss from diarrhea and prevent dehydration.

Side Effects

Stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, bloating, dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Tell your doctor immediately if you have this unlikely but serious side effect: stomach pain. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: recently taken antibiotics, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol intake because it can intensify the dizziness or drowsiness effects of this medication. Use this medication cautiously in children. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: cholestyramine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, slowed breathing, drowsiness or deep sleep, and slow pulse.

Notes

This medication is available without a prescription. However, there is a capsule form that requires a prescription. Do not use this for longer than 2 days without notifying your doctor. Consult your doctor before treating children under six years of age.

Missed Dose

Take each dose as directed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. It may be refrigerated to improve the flavor. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.