Loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication for managing symptoms of acute, short-term diarrhea. It works by influencing the mu-opioid receptors located in the intestinal wall, which slows intestinal movement. This allows the body more time to absorb fluids and electrolytes from the digestive tract, leading to a reduction in the frequency and volume of loose bowel movements. The medication is commonly available over-the-counter for symptomatic relief.
Understanding Loperamide Dosage and Frequency
For adults and children 13 years of age and older, the initial dosage of loperamide is 4 milligrams (mg). Following this, 2 mg can be taken after each subsequent loose bowel movement. Do not exceed the recommended daily maximum dosage.
For over-the-counter use in adults, the maximum daily dosage is 8 mg. Under medical supervision, the maximum daily dosage can be up to 16 mg. For acute diarrhea, loperamide is not recommended for use beyond two days unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
Dosages for children differ by age and weight. Children aged 6 to 8 years (20 to 30 kg) take 2 mg initially, then 1 mg after each loose stool, not exceeding 4 mg daily. Children aged 9 to 11 years (27.3 to 43.2 kg) take 2 mg initially, then 1 mg after each loose stool, with a maximum of 6 mg daily. Loperamide is not recommended for children younger than 2 years. If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours or worsens, seek medical advice.
Key Safety Considerations for Loperamide
Loperamide should not be taken if diarrhea is accompanied by high fever, blood or black, tarry stools, or severe abdominal pain without diarrhea. The medication is also not suitable for diarrhea caused by bacterial infections or antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Using loperamide in these situations could worsen the underlying condition or lead to complications.
Mild side effects include constipation, dizziness, nausea, and stomach cramps. Serious heart problems, including irregular heartbeats and cardiac arrest, have been reported, primarily when very high doses were taken, often in cases of abuse or misuse. Adhere to recommended dosages to minimize these risks.
Loperamide can also interact with other medications, increasing its concentration and risk of adverse effects. Examples include certain heart medications, antifungal drugs, HIV medications, and cholesterol-lowering drugs. Patients taking other drugs should consult a pharmacist or doctor to ensure safe use.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is important to seek medical advice if diarrhea persists for more than two days despite loperamide use. A healthcare professional should also be consulted if symptoms worsen, new symptoms develop, or if signs of dehydration appear. Dehydration can manifest as excessive thirst, reduced urination, dry mouth, or lightheadedness.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if any signs of a serious reaction occur. These can include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or bloody stools. Additionally, symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, a fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, fainting, or trouble breathing warrant urgent medical evaluation, as these could indicate serious heart problems. Any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat, also require immediate medical care.