What condition does Loperamide Hydrochloride treat?
Loperamide Hydrochloride is used for the treatment of sudden diarrhea. It includes traveler’s diarrhea which is a digestive tract disorder that commonly causes loose tools and abdominal cramps. This medication lessens the number of bowel movements and makes the stool less watery.
This prescription may also be used to reduce the amount of discharge. This is usually recommended in patients who have undergone an ileostomy.
Loperamide Hydrochloride belongs to the class of medications called antidiarrheals. It helps to slow down the movement of the gut. This is supplied as a capsule for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.
How does Loperamide Hydrochloride work?
Loperamide Hydrochloride slows down the muscular contractions of the intestine. It lessens the speed at which the gut substances are pushed through the intestines. It also allows more time for electrolytes and water to be reabsorbed back into the body. It results in firmer stools that are passed less frequently.
What is the recommended dosage for Loperamide Hydrochloride?
The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition and response. It is important to take it exactly as it is prescribed. Remember to take it at the same time and in the same way each day. Do not take more often or more than the prescription.
This medication is to be taken by mouth usually after each loose stool. Take it with a full glass of water. Swallow it as a whole. Do not break or chew the capsule. If you are taking this medicine for ongoing diarrhea under your doctor’s direction, let your doctor know if your diarrhea continues after 10 days of treatment.
What are the side effects of Loperamide Hydrochloride?
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Tiredness
- Skin rash
- Stomach pain
- Itching
Tell your doctor if you experience serious side effects such as:
- Severe nausea, vomiting, and constipation
- Uncomfortable fullness of the stomach or abdomen
If these side effects persist or worsen, call your doctor right away.
What are the precautions in taking Loperamide Hydrochloride?
- Inform your doctor if your diarrhea does not improve after 2 days, if you develop new symptoms, or if your condition worsens. If you develop fever, blood in the stool, or an uncomfortable swelling of the stomach, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek medical attention right away.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.
- Children may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication, especially drowsiness. Children are also at a higher risk for dehydration.
- This drug should not be used if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Check the ingredients listed that come with the medicine if you know you have specific allergies. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this and inform your doctor or pharmacist right away.
- Severe heart complications may occur if you take this prescription with other medications. Ask a doctor about safely using medicines together. If you are taking any medications, inform your doctor before taking a dose of this drug.
