Loperamide: how to take it safely
Imodium
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Short-term treatment of non-infectious diarrhoea in adults.
How to take it
- Swallow with water.
- Drink plenty of fluids or ORS.
When to take it
Take it after each loose stool, up to the maximum daily amount on the label.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Giving it to young children unless a doctor says so.
- Using it when there is blood in the stool or a high fever.
- Using it for more than 2 days without medical advice.
Possible side effects
Constipation, stomach cramps, wind, dizziness.
Get help if
Blood in the stool, high fever, severe stomach pain or swollen belly, or diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.