Generic Imodium

Imodium is usually not prescribed. It is an over the counter medication that is designed to reduce the rate at which the body digests food, allowing more time for the small intestines to absorb liquid material. This process helps to curb diarrhea. Imodium can be purchased under varying brand names, including Imodium AD, Imotil, Maalox, Kaopectate, and generically as loperamide. Imodium is used for people who have short term diarrhea. It is also commonly used to reduce the volume of waste produced in patients who have had an ileostomy. This is a surgical procedure that redirects the passage of bowels through a hole in the stomach.

Patients may have to take regular doses of Imodium before their symptoms improve for an entire 48 hours. During this time it is highly recommended that patients increase their water intake. Dehydration is a key concern with diarrhea. Patients who see no improvement after 10 days should request an appointment with their physician. Chronic diarrhea can often be a symptom of a more serious disease.

Patients should use extra caution when driving a car or operating a machinery. Even though this is an over the counter product, it can still slow reaction times and even thought processes.

Patients with a previous allergic reaction to any product containing loperamide should not take Imodium. Patients with black, bloody, or tarry stools or diarrhea that is brought on as a reaction to an antibiotic can not take Imodium. Patients with a fever, a history of liver disease, notice high levels of mucous in the stools, or are currently taking an antibiotic should consult with their physician before taking Imodium.

The American Food and Drug Administration gave Imodium a pregnancy risk rating category B, which means that this medicine carries no expectation of causing harm to a developing fetus. There are no medical findings to indicate whether or not Imodium passes into the mother’s breast milk and affects a nursing infant. Women who are pregnant or nursing should discuss the risks and the benefits with their physician before taking Imodium. This medication has not been approved for children under 2 years of age. Parents of patients under the age of 16 with significant medical problems should consult with the child’s doctor before giving Imodium to their child.

Imodium is most effective when taken at the first sign of diarrhea. Patients should never take more than 3 doses in a 24 hour period without the advice of a physician. Patients should use caution when exceeding recommended dosages as an overdose can result from taking too much medication. Patients generally take this medication on an as needed basis, thus there is no concern about missed doses. Patients should not take more medication than recommended.

Overdosing can cause bloating, cramping, drowsiness, dizziness, vomiting, severe stomach pain, and a lack of urination. If an overdose is suspected, emergency medical attention is necessary.

Side effects are usually mild, although some have the potential to become life threatening. Allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, and throat, hives, and difficulty breathing) along with stomach pain and bloating, worsening diarrhea, bloody or watery diarrhea, and a fever with a sore throat, headache, and serious skin rash require medical attention on an immediate basis.

Common side effects are considered tolerable and include constipation, fatigue, dizziness, mild skin rash, mild itching, and stomach discomfort. If they persist or worsen, treatment should be suspended.

Patients should always read warning labels and ask their physician or pharmacist for clarification. Medications might not always permit the use of Imodium, particularly saquinavir.