About loperamide hcl
Antidiarrheal opioid-receptor agonist
Used for
- Short-term control of acute diarrhea
- Control of chronic diarrhea under medical supervision
- Reduction of stool output in ileostomy patients
Usual adult dose
Acute diarrhea: 4 mg initially, then 2 mg after each loose stool; maximum 8 mg daily over the counter or 16 mg by prescription.
Usual dose in children
Not for children under 2. Ages 2–12: dosing depends on age, weight, and formulation; follow the product label or clinician’s directions.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Important warnings
- Do not use with bloody stools, high fever, or severe abdominal swelling.
- Stop and seek medical care if diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours.
- Excessive doses can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems or death.
- Avoid in children under 2; use caution with liver disease.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy evidence is limited; use only when a clinician considers it necessary.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; short-term use is generally considered compatible, but evidence is limited.
Interactions
- Quinidine or ritonavir may increase loperamide levels.
- Other medicines affecting heart rhythm may increase cardiac risk.
- Medicines that slow bowel movement may increase constipation risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.