Imodium

Product Overview

Imodium is a medication containing the active ingredient Loperamide. It is an antidiarrheal agent used to relieve symptoms of acute and chronic diarrhea in adults and children over 6 years old. Imodium works by slowing down intestinal movement, reducing bowel frequency and improving stool consistency. Available in tablets, capsules, and liquid forms, it offers flexible treatment options for various patient needs.

Uses

Imodium is prescribed for acute diarrhea (including traveler’s diarrhea) and chronic diarrhea related to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It helps normalize bowel function by decreasing stool frequency, improving consistency, and alleviating associated symptoms like abdominal cramps and urgency.

How to Use

Take Imodium orally as directed. Dosage varies by age and symptom severity:
– Adults/children 12+: Initial dose of 2 mg (2 tablets/capsules), then 1 mg after each loose stool (max 4 mg/day)
– Children 6-12: Initial 1 mg, then 0.5 mg after each loose stool (max 3 mg/day)
Always follow label instructions and never exceed recommended doses.

How it Works

Loperamide, Imodium’s active ingredient, acts on intestinal opioid receptors to:
– Slow intestinal contractions (peristalsis)
– Increase anal sphincter tone
– Prolong stool transit time
This allows better water absorption, resulting in firmer stools and reduced frequency.

Dosage and Administration

Dosage depends on age and diarrhea severity:
– Take after each loose stool
– Adults: Max 4 mg/day
– Children 6-12: Max 3 mg/day
Take with water, with or without food. Do not use beyond 2 days without medical advice.

Benefits

Imodium offers:
– Fast relief from diarrhea symptoms
– Reduced stool frequency
– Improved stool consistency
– Convenient OTC availability
Helps restore normal bowel function for uninterrupted daily activities.

Common Side Effects

May include:
– Constipation
– Dizziness
– Drowsiness
– Dry mouth
– Abdominal discomfort
These are typically mild and temporary. Consult a doctor if persistent.

Warnings

Do not use if you have:
– Acute dysentery
– Bacterial enterocolitis
– Antibiotic-associated colitis
– Loperamide allergy
Use cautiously with liver impairment or in elderly patients.

Storage Information

Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children. Dispose of expired medication properly.

Disclaimer:

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for all health concerns. We aim to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.