Information About the Medicine Imodium

Imodium (loperamide) is an antidiarrheal medication that slows the digestive process so that bowel contents move more slowly through the small intestine. This allows more fluid, vitamins, minerals and nutrients to be absorbed, thickening the stool.

Indications

• Imodium is used to treat acute and chronic diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome in those over 2 years old. It is also used for people with ileostomies to decrease the amount of liquid stool.

Side Effects

• Side effects are uncommon but include dry mouth, nausea, flatulence (gas), abdominal cramping and discomfort, dizziness, and constipation. Allergic reactions are rare.

Considerations

• Discontinue Imodium and consult a physician if you show no improvement in diarrhea symptoms after 48 hours, and drink ample fluids to prevent constipation and dehydration.

Warning

• Do not take Imodium if you have bloody or very watery diarrhea, signs of infection (fever, headache, sore throat), ulcerative colitis, bacterial intestinal infections (Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella) or a rash.

Prevention

• Imodium does not appear to cause birth defects, but you should take only with a physician's advice if you are pregnant. Traces of Imodium can be found in breast milk, so don't take Imodium if you are nursing.

Precaution

• Weakness and dizziness are common with diarrhea, so you should avoid operating motor vehicles while taking Imodium.