Loperamide

Indications

Acute diarrhoea in adults and children and chronic diarrhoea in adults

Contraindications

Active UC; antibiotic-associated colitis; bacterial enterocolitis; conditions where abdominal distension develops; conditions where inhibition of peristalsis should be avoided. Avoid in pregnancy. Use with caution in hepatic impairment and for children under 12 years. | Potential side effects: Gastrointestinal disorders; headache; nausea

Preparations Available

Oral tablet/capsule

Quantity

Dose: Children (depending on age): 1–4mg 3–4 times daily (or as required) for up to 3–5 days. Adults (acute diarrhoea): initially 4mg, then 2mg as required (up to 16mg daily) for up to 5 days. Adults (chronic diarrhoea): initially 4–8mg daily in divided doses, adjusted according to response; maintenance up to 16mg daily in two divided doses.

Sizes Available

2mg tablets (30), £2.54; 2mg capsules (30), £0.90

Price

2mg tablets (30), £2.54; 2mg capsules (30), £0.90

More on: Antidiarrhoeals