Contents
Green and grey capsules containing loperamide 2mg
Indication
Acute diarrhoea; acute episodes of diarrhoea associated with irritable bowel syndrome in adults aged 18 years and over following initial diagnosis by doctor
Dosage
Adults and children 12 years and over: Two initially followed, if necessary, by 1 after each loose motion. Maximum of 6 in 24 hours
Caution
Should not be taken by anyone with ileus, constipation or abdominal distension, colitis, fever or blood in the stool
Chapter
Irritable bowel syndrome
Disclaimer
This information is provided for your reference only and it is not to be relied upon on its own as instructions for use of this medication. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances.
Other than liability for death or personal injury arising out of our negligence, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise.
Why do I need this medicine?
Loperamide helps to treat diarrhoea.
Loperamide makes the stools firmer and less watery. It also helps to reduce the number of times you need to run to the toilet.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Loperamide exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Do not take more than 8 capsules or 80 mL in 24 hours.
Take Loperamide with or without food.
If your symptoms do not improve within 48 hours (acute diarrhoea) or 10 days (long-term diarrhoea), consult your doctor.
You may stop taking Loperamide if you have no more diarrhoea. Follow your doctor's instructions.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if your diarrhoea is accompanied by high fever or blood in stool.
Alert your doctor if you recently took a course of antibiotics. In such cases, your diarrhoea may be caused by inflammation of the digestive tract (antibiotic-associated colitis). Your doctor needs to know if you were recently treated with antibiotics and what type of antibiotics.
Alert your doctor if you have stomach pain, swelling or constipation.
Do not give Loperamide to children unless specifically instructed to do so by the child's doctor.
Loperamide is not meant for children younger than 4 years old.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Alert your doctor if you have liver disease.
Drink lots of water to replace the fluids lost through diarrhoea.
What side effects could I experience?
Loperamide may cause stomach cramps, bloating, constipation, nausea, skin itch, rashes and dry mouth.
Let your doctor know if these side effects bother you or if they do not go away.
Loperamide may cause other side effects. Consult your doctor if you have unusual problems while taking this medicine.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed below:
- saquinavir, ritonavir (antiviral medicines)
- quinidine (heart medicine)
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for your reference only and it is not to be relied upon on its own as instructions for use of this medication. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances.
Other than liability for death or personal injury arising out of our negligence, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise.