What is Loperamide Hydrochloride used for?

Running stomach (diarrhea), loose stool, watery stool, traveler's diarrhea, stomach upset with frequent purging

How do you take Loperamide Hydrochloride?

For adults, take 2 capsules (4 mg) after the first loose stool, then take 1 capsule (2 mg) after each additional loose stool. Do not take more than 8 capsules (16 mg) in one day. You can take it with or without food. Drink plenty of water and ORS (oral rehydration salts) alongside to replace lost fluids. Stop taking it once your stool becomes normal, as this is not a medicine you continue for days.

What are the side effects of Loperamide Hydrochloride?

Constipation (inability to go to toilet after the diarrhea stops), stomach cramps or bloating, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, dry mouth, feeling tired or sleepy

Who should not take Loperamide Hydrochloride?

Children under 6 years old. People with bloody diarrhea or diarrhea with high fever: this may be a sign of an infection that needs antibiotics, not loperamide. People with a known allergy to loperamide. People who have been told they have a bowel obstruction (blocked intestine) or ulcerative colitis. Do not use if your diarrhea started after taking antibiotics: see a doctor instead.

Loperamide Hydrochloride: Dosage, Uses & Brands (AC-Motil Capsule, Alapharm Loperamide Capsules, Animotil Tablets)

Showing: Adult dosing

How to take this drug

1.For adults, take 2 capsules (4 mg) after the first loose stool, then take 1 capsule (2 mg) after each additional loose stool.
2.Do not take more than 8 capsules (16 mg) in one day.
3.You can take it with or without food.
4.Drink plenty of water and ORS (oral rehydration salts) alongside to replace lost fluids.
5.Stop taking it once your stool becomes normal, as this is not a medicine you continue for days.

What if I Miss a Dose?

Loperamide is taken only when you have loose stool, not on a fixed schedule. Simply take the next dose after your next episode of loose stool. Do not take a double dose to make up for one you missed.

What to watch out for

Loperamide only stops the purging, so it does not treat the cause of the diarrhea. If you have typhoid, cholera, or dysentery, you still need proper treatment. Always use ORS and drink plenty of clean water alongside, especially in hot Nigerian weather, to prevent dehydration. Buy only from reputable pharmacies: brands like Imodium, Diadon, Diarrax, AC-Motil, or Animotil are commonly available in Nigeria. Avoid roadside or unregistered sellers.

Common Side Effects

Constipation (inability to go to toilet after the diarrhea stops)
stomach cramps or bloating
feeling dizzy or lightheaded
dry mouth
feeling tired or sleepy

Serious Side Effects

Severe stomach pain or swelling that gets worse: this could mean your intestine is blocked. Severe constipation lasting more than 3 days after stopping the drug. Irregular or fast heartbeat
fainting: go to the hospital immediately.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking with ritonavir or other HIV medicines as they can increase loperamide levels dangerously in your body. Do not mix with alcohol, as it can make dizziness and drowsiness much worse. Be cautious taking it alongside antibiotics like erythromycin or ketoconazole (antifungal) as they may increase side effects.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Loperamide should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if your doctor specifically tells you to. Consult your doctor first before taking it.

Who Should NOT Take This

Children under 6 years old. People with bloody diarrhea or diarrhea with high fever: this may be a sign of an infection that needs antibiotics
not loperamide. People with a known allergy to loperamide. People who have been told they have a bowel obstruction (blocked intestine) or ulcerative colitis. Do not use if your diarrhea started after taking antibiotics: see a doctor instead.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it in its original pack and far away from children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Brand Names

Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies

Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check

Counterfeit Drug Warning

Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.

Loperamide Hydrochloride

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