Loperamide is an over-the-counter medication used to treat diarrhea, including traveler’s diarrhea and diarrhea caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It works by slowing down the amount of fluid and electrolytes going into the bowel, and also slows down the movement of the bowel in order to reduce the number of bowel movements. It is also used in prescription form to decrease fluid buildup in people with ileostomies (a surgery where an opening is creased in the abdomen for waste to leave the body).

Loperamide is available in its generic form and under the brand names Imodium, Diamode, Imogen, Imotil, Imperim, Kaodene, and Kao-Paverin. It is available in the form of a capsule, tablet, and liquid.

Over-the-counter loperamide is used to treat diarrhea, including traveler’s diarrhea and diarrhea caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Prescription loperamide is used to decrease fluid buildup in people with ileostomies (a surgery where an opening is creased in the abdomen for waste to leave the body).

It is rare to experience side effects beyond constipation and fatigue while taking loperamide. However, you should see medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms, as it could be a sign of an allergic or drug reaction:

• Skin rash
  
• Skin irritation (blistering and peeling)
  
• Hives
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Fever
  
• Bloody stools
  
• Stomach pain
  
  

Loperamide can make you drowsy or dizzy, so avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you know how the drug affects you.

If you are using prescription loperamide, be sure to inform your prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with. You should also speak with your provider about any medications or supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with prescription loperamide. Loperamide can interact with certain antibiotics, antifungals, antimalarials, antivirals, and other medications or substances, causing potentially serious side effects.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

The starting dose of loperamide depends on whether it’s prescription-strength or over-the-counter. Nonprescription (over-the-counter) loperamide is typically taken right after a loose bowel movement. Do not exceed the recommended dosage on the medication's label. Your doctor will give you specific directions on prescription loperamide dosage. You should take the medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes.

Taking more loperamide than prescribed or listed on the label can cause severe heart rhythm problems or death.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of prescription loperamide without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking loperamide to make up for any lost fluids due to diarrhea.

Loperamide should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and kept out of the reach of children.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for loperamide to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.

Loperamide is available over-the-counter in a non-prescription strength. This means it is widely available for purchase at most retail health stores without a prescription from a doctor.

Prescription-strength loperamide is not available over-the-counter, as its use must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not prescription loperamide is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.