Loperamide
introduction
Loperamide is used in the treatment of diarrheal diseases. It is an opioid that does not work in the central nervous system like most other opioids, but in the intestine. Loperamide inhibits the intestinal activity and in this way alleviates the symptoms of diarrhea.
The drug is usually well tolerated. In rare cases, constipation, headaches, and dizziness may occur.
The drug is available without a prescription and should be taken for a maximum of two days.
definition
Loperamide is one of the peripherally effective Opioids. It does not work in the central nervous system, but in the Intestines. Loperamide crosses the so-called blood-brain barrier, but is immediately removed again by special transporters. Its chemical structure determines the bond with certain Opioid receptors in the intestinal wall. That way it does one Inhibition of muscular bowel activity. The intestinal passage is shortened in the case of acute infections or food intolerance. The food pulp will significantly less water withdrawn. The active ingredient loperamide enables one increased water intake as a result of reduced intestinal peristalsis. The stool stays in the bowel longer and thickens.
When can I take loperamide?
Loperamide serves the Symptom relief in acute Diarrheal diseases. Treatment should no more than two days last long. If there is no improvement in the symptoms during this period, it becomes one Doctor visit devices.
Treatment with Loperamide becomes in adults and adolescents from the age of twelve recommended.
children under two years of age are allowed to use loperamide do not take. From the age of two, there are preparations with a low dosage.
When should I not take loperamide?
Loperamide must not be taken if known allergic reaction compared to the Active ingredient Loperamide hydrochloride.
children under the age of 12 years not be treated with the drug.
If the Diarrhea along with a fever as an accompanying symptom and / or is bloody stool, we strongly advise against taking loperamide. The same applies to diarrhea that occurs after a Antibiotic therapy occur, and acute flare-ups Ulcerative colitis. Chronic diarrhea are only used on medical advice Loperamide treated.
Side effects
Among the most common Side effects in treatment with loperamide count in about one to ten percent of cases a headache, constipation and Dizzy spells. Furthermore you can Nausea and gas occur.
Interactions
Loperamide can be in with various drugs interaction to step.
This includes the drug Quinidine, which is used in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, and Verapamil as a means of treating cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, the simultaneous use of Loperamide and ketoconazole, which fights fungal infections, can be avoided.
Ritonavir is used in HIV treatment and can be used in combination with loperamide too undesirable effects to lead.
In combination with alcohol
The enjoyment of alcohol while taking loperamide should be avoided.
During pregnancy
Loperamide should not during pregnancy be taken. So far there is insufficient data on this.
In the breastfeeding period
Just as in pregnancy, it will advised against, To take loperamide while breastfeeding. The active ingredient passes into breast milk and can be absorbed by the baby while breastfeeding.
Loperamide 2 mg
Loperamide is in commercially available preparations in one Dosage of 2 mg available. Usually it is hard capsules or film-coated tablets that contain the Active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride included in the indicated dosage. One pack contains 12 capsules or tablets that can be taken without a prescription. This corresponds to the maximum dosage for two days.
dose
The dose when taking Loperamide depends on the severity of the diarrhea. Adults with acute diarrhea take it at the start of treatment two tablets or capsules of 2 mg each of the active ingredient contained. If the stool remains fluid, another 2 mg loperamide can be administered orally. The daily dose should be 12 mg, i.e. 6 tablets or capsules, do not exceed.
If the diarrhea persists after two days despite taking loperamide, you are advised to see a doctor. Prolonged treatment with loperamide should only be done on medical advice.
Children are allowed from the age of 12 treated with loperamide. The dosage differs up to the age of 18. In acute diarrhea, only one tablet or capsule is taken at the beginning. After each subsequent liquid stool, 2 mg can be swallowed repeatedly. The maximum daily dose is 4 mg.
Acute treatment for diarrhea
Loperamide is in the acute treatment of diarrheal diseases used. Adults take two tablets / capsules with 2 mg in the acute situation. If the symptoms persist, it can be taken again until the daily dose of 12 mg is reached.
The drug is offered by various companies without a prescription. It is among others under the name Imodium®, Lopedium® and under Active ingredient names loperamide available in all pharmacies. You can find detailed information on use, side effects, etc. on the package insert.
Summary
Loperamide as a peripherally active opiod is used in the treatment of acute diarrheal diseases. It causes a reduction in bowel activity and in this way thickens the stool. The over-the-counter drug should not be taken for more than two days.
Children under the age of twelve are excluded from treatment with loperamide. Side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea can occur but are rare.
