Loperamide
Loperamide slows down the rhythm of digestion so that the small intestines have more time to absorb fluid and nutrients.
Dosage by Body Weight
Contraindicated in children under 2 years. Use with caution in older children to avoid ileus (bowel paralysis).
- Body Weight
- 13-20 kg
- Dose
- 1 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- Tracking Notes
- Only for non-bloody, non-febrile diarrhea.
- Body Weight
- 21-30 kg
- Dose
- 2 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- Tracking Notes
- Stop use if constipation occurs.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13-20 kg | 1 mg | Twice daily | Only for non-bloody, non-febrile diarrhea. |
| 21-30 kg | 2 mg | Twice daily | Stop use if constipation occurs. |
Formulation
Purpose
Anti-diarrheal medication used to control acute and chronic diarrhea.
Generic Name
Loperamide HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Loperamide is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONLoperamide: Alcohol can worsen stomach irritation, dehydration, dizziness, or bowel symptoms. Avoid or limit alcohol.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDLoperamide: Use during pregnancy only when prescribed or recommended by a healthcare provider for the specific condition.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDLoperamide: Use while breastfeeding only as directed; monitor the infant for diarrhea, drowsiness, or feeding changes when relevant.
Driving
SAFELoperamide: Usually does not affect driving, but dizziness, cramps, or weakness can occur. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONLoperamide: Use caution in significant liver disease or when the medicine is used for liver-related complications.
Kidney
CAUTIONLoperamide: Kidney disease or dehydration can increase side-effect risk for some gastrointestinal medicines. Use with medical guidance.