Indications for the use of imodium are the treatment of digestive disorders. Imodium for diarrhea Use in infectious diseases

Destruction of the gene pool

Killer drugs on the Russian market

Pharmaceuticals is an area of life where neither class sensitivity nor a conceptually competent worldview will help people. This requires specific knowledge. So we are giving them for the third year. Today we will talk about the latest drugs, banned in many countries of the world due to deadly side effects and sold in our Papua New Russia.

Imodium (loperamide)

Imodiumis a Belgian brandloperamide, a product for the treatment of diarrhea in children, normalization of intestinal function in children and adults, launched on the world market by the renowned transnational corporation Johnson & Johnson. The drug has been firmly established on the Russian market since the 1990s.

In the West, information about mortal danger imodium for the children's body became public knowledge back in 1980, when this medicine was the leading antidiarrheal drug in the world. But we will not talk about the West, but about how the exile took place loperamide-imodium in Pakistan, a country very close to Russia in terms of economics and corruption.

For the time being, the Belgian company Janssen (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson) quietly corrupted Pakistani officials, Pakistani mothers calmly bullied their children, and the Pakistani state calmly looked on. Fight with imodium began not in the capital’s medical circles, but in a teaching hospital in the small provincial city of Multan, which cannot be found on any map. And it was started by two simple Pakistani doctors who eventually managed to defeat the all-powerful “octopus,” by which we mean a tandem of a foreign corporation and native bureaucracy, bound by “business interests.” At the end of 1989, in just two months, 19 cases were registered in the pediatric ward of a provincial hospital when, as a result of taking drops, imodium manufactured by Janssen, infants developed severe abdominal swelling and intestinal paralysis. Eighteen children were under 7 months of age; another one was 2 years old. Six children died in the hospital, four more were taken home in serious condition, so that, according to the customs of the Pakistani people, they died at home, nine children survived. Two doctors from the hospital wrote a letter to Janssen asking them to withdraw the drops from the market. imodium. The company ignored the message. Having not received an answer, the doctors took the only possible path in the conditions of life under the “octopus” - they made the fact public. In February 1990, they publicly, from the pages of the newspaper, addressed manufacturers with a demand to “remove Imodium from the Pakistani drug market before it kills more children."

Janssen responded quickly. The firm asked one of the firm's doctors to send more information about the deaths, while issuing a "reassuring" statement saying it was premature to take any action until all the details were clear; what's in the prescribing information imodium clearly stated: the medicine should not be used on children under 12 months of age; and that the drops are for prescription use only and should only be used under medical supervision.

By March 1990, it became clear to the “octopus” that since he had made it public, he had to “put a good face on a bad game.” The tandem tried to create a “parallel reality”: the company said it voluntarily withdrew the drops imodium both from the Pakistani and global markets, and the Federal Ministry of Health of Pakistan has assured that it has banned the drops imodium and revoked the registration of all other pediatric products containing loperamide. Statements were made in official circles and without publicity, but in real life, participants in the pharmaceutical business continued to make profits from the “promoted” medicine. The provincial doctor did not give up. He again sent a letter to Janssen, in which he said that several more children were admitted to the hospital with poisoning imodium, and urged the firm to take appropriate action. In May, the doctor managed to attract the attention of a film crew from Yorkshire Television. The British went to pharmacies and found Imodium in six out of ten, after which they shot a documentary film without embellishment, capturing how the child died in front of the cameraman. In June In 1990, the shocking film was delivered to Johnson & Johnson executives in New Jersey for viewing. After the press session Johnson & Johnson's vice president of science and technology announced that the company is making every effort to withdraw oral drops from the Pakistani market. The company soon issued a statement: “We have removed the drops imodium in other developing countries and suspended their sales worldwide. We also voluntarily remove syrup imodium in countries where the World Health Organization has a diarrheal disease control program."

Indeed, in most parts of the world they have either banned the use of Imodium, or set an age limit up to which the drug should not be used (in Australia, for example, they set an age limit of 12 years).

But then, as you remember, the collapse of the Union happened, and the omnivorous market of the Russian Federation with an infinitely gullible population and an excellent grasping reflex of officials opened up to child-killing corporations. Children's Imodium-loperamide rushed to us and to this day is one of the most popular children's drugs, and for one-year-old babies. And not only Belgian, but also any other.

Naturally, information about the deadly “side effect” was hidden from Russian mothers. In the 2007 “Directory of Medicines,” for example, only constipation and dizziness are listed as undesirable effects, and even then with “long-term use.”

And here's the most amazing thing. In the "Directory" for 2004 it is said that the drug is intended for the treatment of children aged 5 years and older, and one synonym is indicated. In the "Directory" for 2007 dosage indicated imodium for children aged 1 year and older, and there are already 20 synonyms (let’s call German lopedium, Polish loperamide, Indian loperakap, Swiss loperamide-Rivopharm, American loperamide hydrochloride... there is also a Russian copy loperamide-Acri). It turns out that over the past three years, our regulatory agencies that control the pharmaceutical market have lifted the age limit and brought in a deadly drug from all over the world.

Loose stools are formed under the influence of multiple unfavorable factors. Diarrhea can be caused by poor-quality nutrition, stressful situations, allergic reactions, medications, polluted environment, diseases of the digestive tract and other organs, and bacteria. All of these factors contribute to disruption of the digestive system and the appearance of diarrhea, to alleviate the symptoms of which there are various medications with a fast-acting effect. One of them is Imodium. The use of this drug allows you to reduce the number of bowel movements in a very short time and avoid many unpleasant consequences, for example, dehydration, which is especially dangerous for children.

Description of the drug

Imodium is a medicine designed to combat the symptoms of diarrhea. The most common form of release is lyophilized lozenges, chewable tablets (Imodium plus), capsules. Lyophilization is the drying of substances by rapid freezing and placing in a vacuum chamber. This method is used to increase the shelf life of substances, in this case it is loperamide hydrochloride, which is the main active ingredient of Imodium. In addition to the main component, the drug contains additional substances:

lactose;
corn starch;
talc;
magnesium stearate;
iron oxide;
titanium dioxide;
indigo carmine;
aspartame;
gelatin;
sodium bicarbonate;
mint or vanilla flavoring;
Simethicone

Depending on the form of release, the composition of the excipients may differ slightly, but the dosage of loperamide hydrochloride remains the same - two milligrams in each tablet and capsule. In some cases, the medicine can be used in the form of drops or a solution; this form is especially relevant for children.

Pharmacological properties

Imodium, as indicated in the instructions for use, helps to reduce intestinal contractile function. Due to the binding of the active substance loperamide hydrochloride, which is part of the drug, to receptors located on the intestinal walls, the synthesis of the hormones acetylcholine and prostaglandin is suppressed. This has a calming effect on the intestines and reduces peristalsis, increases the time it takes for feces to pass through the digestive tract and reduces the symptoms of diarrhea. The use of the drug provokes an increase in the tone of the rectum and anal sphincter, due to which loose stool is retained inside longer. In addition, loperamide hydrochloride has the property of:

reduce mucus secretion and its release into the intestinal lumen;
stimulate the absorption capacity of the intestine, which increases the absorption of fluid into the blood and prevents dehydration, which often occurs with diarrhea;
reduce pain and spasms.

Simethicone, which is included in the composition, alleviates the symptoms accompanying diarrhea - flatulence, cramps. The medicine begins to act a maximum of an hour after administration. The duration of exposure to the drug is approximately six hours. It is excreted from the body in about a day with feces and urine.

What does it help with?

According to the indications for use, Imodium is used for:

allergic diarrhea;
psychogenic diarrhea;
diarrhea caused by drugs;
loose stools resulting from radiation or surgery;
digestive disorders caused by changing climatic conditions and environmental conditions;
food, alcohol and chemical poisoning accompanied by diarrhea;
diarrhea of infectious, bacterial origin (as an adjuvant);
some diseases, the symptom of which is loose stool.

The drug is used for both acute and chronic forms of diarrhea. Whatever the reasons, you should not take the medicine if there is blood in the stool, which indicates internal bleeding that occurs in certain diseases for which the drug may be contraindicated.

Instructions for use, dosage

Due to existing contraindications and age restrictions, you should consult a specialist before using the drug.

How to use

For acute diarrhea, lozenges, chewable tablets and capsules are prescribed in two pieces, which corresponds to four milligrams of loperamide - this is the initial dosage. Next, take one tablet (capsule) after each bowel movement. The daily dosage of Imodium should not exceed eight tablets (capsules). For chronic diseases, the dosage is selected individually, usually no more than six tablets (capsules) per day, it all depends on the patient’s condition. Treatment is continued until the number of bowel movements is reduced to twice a day.

The medicine in liquid form is prescribed in the amount of 60 drops upon initial administration, then after each bowel movement 30 drops. Daily dosage – no more than 180 drops per day.

The lozenges are placed under the tongue and are not taken down after dissolution. Capsules must be taken with water. Chewable tablets are chewed and washed down with water. During treatment with this drug, the amount of fluid consumed should be increased to two to three liters per day. The average duration of treatment is three days; further use of the drug can lead to unpleasant consequences.

The use of the medicine should be stopped if:

within two days there is no improvement in the condition;
bloody feces appeared;
improvement is observed, the number of bowel movements does not exceed two times a day;
there is no stool for twelve hours.

For infectious diarrhea, the medicine is prescribed only in combination with antibiotics. In the first days of infectious diseases or in case of intoxication, it is not recommended to eliminate loose stools with antidiarrheal agents, since bacteria and toxins leave the body with feces.

Use in pregnant and lactating women

The drug is strictly prohibited to be used in the first three months of pregnancy and during lactation, since its effect is unsafe for the development of the child. In the second and third trimester, the use of the medicine is permissible, but only in cases of urgent need. The dosage is determined by the attending physician individually for each case.

Use for diarrhea in children

Imodium is contraindicated for children under two years of age. For children, its use is fraught with the development of paralysis of the intestinal muscles and swelling of the abdominal cavity, which can be fatal. Therefore, in childhood, the drug should be used only under the supervision of a specialist. From the age of six, the use of lozenges is allowed, but the most convenient option is drops and solution. Capsules are not recommended for children under six years of age; chewable tablets are recommended for children over twelve years of age. But opinions differ on this matter, as in some countries there are different age thresholds for the use of Imodium in the treatment of childhood diseases. In some states, for example, in Australia, a ban has been introduced on the use of the product in any form for up to twelve years.

Children's dosage:

Tablets and capsules are prescribed one at a time. The daily norm is no more than four tablets (capsules).
Drops - give 30 drops for the first dose, then 15 drops after each bowel movement. The maximum daily dose is 120 drops.
The solution is prescribed at a dose of 5 milliliters (one measuring cap) per 10 kilograms of the child’s weight, no more than three times a day.

Children over twelve years of age are prescribed an adult dosage. The duration of treatment is three days. If there is no positive result within two days, the drug should be discontinued.

Contraindications

The medicine should not be used in children under two years of age, nursing women, in the first months of pregnancy, as well as in case of:

intestinal obstruction, constipation;
bloating;
gastritis;
Crohn's disease;
intestinal adhesions;
diverticulosis;
hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
ulcerative and pseudomembranous colitis;
phenylketonuria – a disease associated with impaired metabolism of phenylalanine (amino acid);
the presence of blood in the stool;
increased body temperature;
liver pathologies.

Particular care should be taken when treating loose stools caused by antibiotics or infectious diseases.

Side effects

If the dosage and instructions for using the medicine are followed, there are usually no unpleasant consequences observed. In case of overdose, the following may appear:

dizziness;
headaches;
ailments and weakness;
sleep disorders;
coordination problems;
thirst;
nausea;
vomiting;
colic and cramps in the abdominal area;
flatulence;
intestinal obstruction;
urinary retention;
skin rashes and other allergic reactions.

What is the price?

The cost of the drug may vary in different regions. The price also depends on the form of the drug and the quantity in the package.

Approximate cost of 10 tablets:

in Moscow – 246-370 rubles;
in the Leningrad region - 265-311 rubles;
in the Vladimir region - 238-312 rubles;
in Volgograd – 278 rubles;
in the Vologda region – 207-288 rubles;
in the Voronezh region - 266-294 rubles;
in the Ivanovo region - 216-314 rubles;
in Kaliningrad – 298-304 rubles.

The approximate cost for 6 capsules is:

in Moscow – 165-217 rubles;
in the Leningrad region - 156-183 rubles;
in Murmansk – 220-231 rubles.

Analogues

Analogues of the drug Imodium, similar in composition, are much cheaper. These include:

Loperamide;
Diara;
Lopedium;
Diarol;
Superilop;
Laremid;
Enterobene;
Loperacap;
Stoperan.

The cheapest analogue is the drug Loperamide, its cost for 10 tablets is approximately 20 rubles, which is almost ten times cheaper than Imodium.

Also look at the selection -

Imodium is a drug produced in capsule form. For acute diarrhea, it is preferable to use Imodium in the form of lozenges. Thank you for explaining in detail how this Imodium works.

Imodium ® (lat. Imodium ®) is an antidiarrheal drug. Imodium comes in two dosage forms: capsules and lozenges, also called lingual tablets. Imodium (lomeramide) is the drug of choice for the treatment of traveler's diarrhea. For secretory diarrhea, Imodium is also very effective due to its antisecretory opiate-like effect.

How to take Imodium: rules and warnings

The information presented in this section about medications, diagnostic and treatment methods is intended for medical professionals and does not constitute instructions for use. Imodium (lomeramide) is an effective remedy for acute diarrhea of a non-infectious nature, as well as for infectious diarrhea of mild and moderate severity.

Loperamide increases the tone of the anal sphincter, resulting in a decrease in the frequency and severity of the urge to defecate. Loperamide reduces mucus hypersecretion in the colon, and also has an antisecretory effect, which is realized through both opioid and non-opioid receptors. Moreover, in these situations it can worsen diarrhea. For infectious diarrhea, Imodium should be prescribed with caution, since the retention of the infectious agent in the body increases diarrhea and intoxication.

If normal stool appears or if there is no stool for more than 12 hours, the drug is discontinued (Instructions for use). The WHO training manual “Treatment of diarrhea”, 2006, notes that Imodium, as “... and other inhibitors of intestinal motility may reduce the frequency of bowel movements in adults. None of these drugs should be given to infants and children with diarrhea."

The composition of Imodium and its effect

Loperamide, which is part of the drug, takes effect an hour after use. The active substance of the drug (Loperamide) is easily excreted from the intestines, completely absorbed by the liver and excreted in the bile. In the USA in 1973, the drug was patented and it became known under the brand name IMODIUM®. At the moment, it is the only drug containing Loperamide in this form (among its analogues).

Find out more about the drug IMODIUM®, the principle of its action and the history of the drug’s appearance in the world and in Ukraine. IMODIUM® should be used to treat acute and chronic diarrhea and in cases of traveler's diarrhea. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, you should consult a doctor. To establish a diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment, you must consult a doctor.

Indications for use:

The effect of imodium is associated with the effect of its active component, loperamide, on nerve cells. Feces are retained in the intestines, while partial reabsorption of water and salts into the blood occurs and dehydration is prevented.

For all chronic diseases and intestinal conditions, Imodium can only be prescribed by a doctor who selects an individual dose of the drug and monitors the patient’s condition. If the patient shows signs of drug overdose, intestinal obstruction or intestinal infection, Imodium is discontinued. Some resort to emergency treatment with widely advertised medications, such as the popular Imodium.

A spoiled and contaminated product, which contains pathogenic microorganisms and the dangerous toxins they produce, is eaten by an adult or child. In the stomach, under the influence of hydrochloric acid, microbes may die, but the toxins are not neutralized, unfortunately.

The pharmaceutical industry has been producing Imodium for over 30 years. It comes in capsules that must be swallowed and washed down. Another more convenient form, especially on the road, is round tablets of white color and mint taste, they need to be dissolved.

Briefly about food poisoning and intestinal infections

The drug relieves pain associated with spasms in the intestines. The medicine begins to act within half an hour. Imodium has no effect on pathogenic bacteria. With diarrhea, microbes and their toxic products are present in the intestines.

There is no need to grab Imodium yet if diarrhea occurred due to taking antibiotics - then complications may arise against the background of dysbacteriosis. Imodium or its synonym Loperamide, which costs less, are often found in home or travel first aid kits. They are used by many because they are easy to use. People think that they can resort to these drugs in any case of diarrhea without fear.

Now it is clear that you still need to drink something else against intestinal microbes, or Imodium in extreme cases, if you really are traveling in transport. This drug acts on the intestinal muscles and slows down the movement of its contents. What medicine will quickly and effectively help against diarrhea? In this article you can read the instructions for using the drug against indigestion.

This is a fairly well-known and effective antidiarrheal drug that has found wide use throughout the world. The manufacturer of this drug is Janssen.

However, as for newborns, this drug paralyzes their intestinal muscles. As a result, most children die. A similar tragedy occurred in Pakistan. Many experts argue that children's Imodium should no longer be supplied to pharmacies.

That’s when many people pull out pre-stocked Imodium tablets or other drugs or its analogues from their purse. But in such situations it is still undesirable to use Imodium. To prevent this from happening, it is better to take Imodium as prescribed by a doctor, despite the fact that this drug is sold in pharmacies without a prescription.

Imodium: instructions for use

How does Imodium work?

In the classification of drugs, the drug belongs to the antidiarrheal group. Loperamide reduces the motor activity of the muscular wall of the intestine and increases the tone of the anal sphincter (the muscular ring that locks the rectum), thereby slowing down the passage of contents through the intestinal tube. The effect occurs within half an hour after administration and lasts up to 6 hours.

Dosage of the drug

Imodium is available in capsules and tablets of 2 mg. For adults and children over 12 years of age, it is recommended to start with 4 mg for diarrhea, then another 2 mg after each episode of diarrhea. The maximum permissible dose for adults is 16 mg per day, and for children - 6 mg per 20 kg of body weight up to 16 mg. In children it is approved for use from 4 years of age at the following dose:

from 4 to 8 years: 1 mg up to 4 times a day for 3 days;
from 9 to 12 years: 2 mg up to 4 times a day for 5 days.

Mode of application

Imodium capsules are taken orally half an hour before meals. Lozenges are placed on the tip of the tongue. Within a few seconds, the tablet dissolves and can be swallowed without drinking water. Stop taking the drug when formed stool appears or if there is no urge to defecate for more than 12 hours.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Imodium during pregnancy is contraindicated in the first trimester, when the newly developing tissues and organs of the fetus are most susceptible to all influences, including medications. If it is necessary to take it in the second and third trimesters, the issue of prescription is decided individually with the attending physician in order to adequately assess the benefits for the mother and the possible risk for the baby. A small amount of the active substance is found in breast milk, so taking the drug is not recommended during breastfeeding.

Indications for use

Imodium is prescribed for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea, i.e. the drug does not affect the cause of the pathology that has arisen, but only counteracts the unpleasant sign of the disease:

allergic diarrhea;
upset bowel movements due to emotional reasons;
loose stools as a side effect of taking other medications;
radiation diarrhea;
when changing diet and diet composition;
in case of disruption of absorption processes in the small intestine;
for infectious diarrhea - only as an adjuvant;
in patients with ileostomy - to regulate stool frequency.

Contraindications

There is a list of conditions for which Imodium should not be used:

intestinal obstruction;
constipation;
flatulence;
acute ulcerative colitis;
pseudomembranous colitis as a result of taking certain antibiotics (lincomycin, clindamycin, less often penicillins and cephalosporins);
age under 4 years, and in capsules – under 6 years;
pregnancy at less than 13 weeks.

Loperamide or Imodium – which is better?

The active ingredient in the drug under the trade name Imodium is loperamide. Imodium is an original drug, that is, it is produced by the same pharmaceutical company that developed and researched it. In addition, there are generics on the market - medicines with a similar composition and instructions for use, but they are produced by other manufacturers:

Loperamide (Russia, Ukraine, Latvia);
Vero-Loperamide (Russia);
Diara (Russia);
Lopedium (Slovenia, Germany, Switzerland);
Superilop (India).

They are significantly cheaper than their prototype, since the company does not need to recoup the costs of the invention and clinical trials of the chemical formula. Nevertheless, any practicing doctor confidently recommends the original drug, since it is more effective than analogues and is less likely to cause side effects. This is due to the release form and the quality of the excipients that are inevitably included in the tablet or capsule.

What is Imodium Plus?

Imodium Plus is a multicomponent drug that contains two active ingredients - loperamide and simethicone. Simethicone is an antifoaming agent used to relieve increased gas formation and bloating, which are often observed when taking loperamide. Imodium Plus has similar indications and contraindications for use, but is approved only for patients over 12 years of age.

Features of taking the medicine

If diarrhea occurs, it is advisable to consult a specialist so as not to worsen the condition. If symptoms do not subside within 2 days of self-treatment, be sure to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the disease and receive the necessary recommendations for treatment.

With diarrhea of any origin, the body loses water and salts, so they need to be replenished by taking a sufficient amount of fluid - preferably saline solutions (such as Oralit, Regidron). This is especially important in case of poisoning, when drinking plenty of fluids is intended not only to cover the body’s costs, but also to dissolve and remove toxins from the bloodstream. You can independently prepare a solution similar to physiological (0.9% sodium chloride), for which a teaspoon of coarse table salt (it does not contain an anti-caking agent) is dissolved in 1 liter of boiled or bottled water at a temperature of 37 - 40 ° C.

Remember that if a child has an intestinal infection, his condition may worsen sharply. Children become dehydrated faster, tolerate intoxication more severely, and shock can develop—a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. They are more likely to vomit, making it difficult to give them enough liquid to drink. In this case, the baby needs intravenous administration of saline solutions and medications. If your child experiences diarrhea or vomiting, be sure to consult your pediatrician. If the doctor considers hospitalization necessary, do not refuse - delay could cost the baby his life.

Use caution when performing activities that require increased alertness and reaction, including driving. Loperamide may cause drowsiness, loss of coordination, stupor, and depression of consciousness. If these symptoms appear, stop taking the drug and seek help from a specialist.

Any disease can be treated more effectively with an integrated approach - it is not enough just to take a remedy for diarrhea. If we are talking about an intestinal infection (salmonellosis or dysentery), the first place is taken by an antibacterial drug; in case of an allergic infection, the search for and exclusion of the intolerable product from the menu comes first. The doctor will draw up a detailed treatment plan and explain how to take this or that drug.

Learn how to take Imodium for diarrhea

Intestinal disorders can occur suddenly, ruining all your plans for the day. Especially when it comes to irritable bowel syndrome, which occurs due to stress and nervous tension.

Therefore, you should always have anti-diarrhea tablets on hand that can neutralize the symptoms of diarrhea in the shortest possible time. One such drug is Imodium. It slows down intestinal motility, reducing the urge to defecate. We will discuss further how to use Imodium anti-diarrhea tablets and what you need to know.

Pharmacokinetics

The main active ingredient of the drug is loperamide, which, after entering the gastrointestinal tract, is completely absorbed, penetrating into the intestines. This substance is not able to be absorbed into the blood, so it acts locally, bypassing the general bloodstream. This is one of its main advantages, thanks to which the therapeutic effect occurs as quickly as possible.

The drug molecules act on opioid receptors, suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandins and acetylcholines.

This in turn reduces the sensitivity of the mucous membrane to the irritant, which helps reduce the manifestations of diarrhea. Slow peristalsis provokes a decrease in the speed of movement of masses through the intestines, due to which the urge to defecate disappears immediately after taking the pill.

Loperamide has a selective effect, that is, it affects exclusively the intestinal mucosa, without reducing concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions. Its effectiveness can also be described by the following therapeutic manifestations:

regulates the production of mucus by the cells of the intestinal mucosa;
increased tone of the rectum and sphincter, which dulls diarrhea, reducing urge;
normalization of the absorption of nutrients in the intestines, which avoids dehydration and disturbances in water-salt balance;
decreased spasm of smooth muscles, which helps eliminate unpleasant pain in the abdomen;
slowing down intestinal motility.

The complete elimination period is hours.

Does it help with diarrhea?

The drug reduces intestinal motility, helping to reduce the urge to defecate.

Release form and composition

The drug is produced in the form of lozenges, as well as in the form of gelatin-coated capsules.

Each tablet and capsule contains 2 mg of the main component loperamide hydrochloride, as well as auxiliary components such as natural flavor (mint), gelatin, aspartate. The tablets are packaged in plastic blisters of 10 or 20 pcs.

Capsules are packaged in plastic blisters of 10 pieces. One package contains 1 or 2 blisters.

Dosage and application regimen

The tablets are intended for resorption in the oral cavity. To do this, it is placed under the tongue or behind the cheek, where it slowly dissolves. In the presence of acute diarrhea, use 1 tablet every 3-4 hours. As maintenance therapy, the drug can be used twice a day, morning and evening. If diarrhea has not decreased on the second day, a decision is made to discontinue this medication and replace it with another.

Capsules are taken orally with a small amount of water. For acute diarrhea, it is recommended to take 1 capsule three times a day. If there is no bowel movement for more than three days, the medicine should be discontinued.

In the presence of chronic diarrhea caused by systemic diseases, you should take Imodium 1 tablet per day or 1 capsule. For chronic forms of diarrhea, it is recommended to use capsules, since they dissolve directly in the intestines, which provides a prolonged antidiarrheal effect. The dosage should be adjusted depending on the improvement of the patient's condition. Imodium is suitable for both long-term and one-time use.

The maximum daily dose is mg, which is equal to 8 tablets. Their intake is divided into equal periods of time, which ensures maximum effect.

Indications for use

Imodium is prescribed in the presence of diarrhea of various etiologies. For bacterial diarrhea, it acts as an adjuvant in complex therapy. If diarrhea is a consequence of systemic diseases and disturbances of the intestinal microflora, it can be used as the main medicine for diarrhea.

If there is an intestinal disorder caused by pathogenic microflora, treatment is supplemented with medications such as:

Antibiotics (Nifuroxazide, Ceftriaxone, Cefazolin) - help destroy bacteria not only in the intestines, but throughout the body.
Enterosorbents (Sorbex, Laktofiltrum, Polysorb) - help reduce the concentration of toxic substances produced by bacteria by gluing and neutralizing them.
Probiotics (Linex, Bifiform, Acipol) - replenish the deficiency of benign bacteria in the intestines by seeding the mucous membrane.

If diarrhea has other causes (stress, diseases of the stomach and intestines), the following may be included in the course of treatment:

enzymes;
diuretics and choleretic drugs;
drugs that normalize pH;
antidepressants.

Contraindications

Considering the fact that the drug has a local effect and practically does not enter the general bloodstream, there are still some contraindications for use that should be taken into account when choosing remedies for diarrhea. These include:

the presence of ulcerative colitis, accompanied by profuse and prolonged diarrhea;
severe constipation (no bowel movements for more than 4 days);
bloating and increased gas formation;
intestinal pathologies, in which it is extremely dangerous to reduce its motility;
in the presence of blood and pus in the stool;
acute dysentery, which is characterized by vomiting and high fever;
intestinal obstruction not associated with diarrhea;
diverticulosis;
first trimester of pregnancy;
children under 5 years of age, due to the presence of a high dosage of loperamide.

Nuances of use for special categories of patients

To date, it is not reliably known how Imodium affects the intrauterine development of the fetus. There are no facts that would confirm its detrimental effect on the development of a child. However, you should not self-medicate during pregnancy. It is strictly forbidden to use the drug in the first trimester of pregnancy, when all the vital organs and systems of the child are formed. In the case when the doctor assesses the current situation and notes that the expected benefit to the mother is several times greater than the possible harm to the fetus, the drug is prescribed using minimal dosages. Treatment should begin with lozenges, using no more than half at a time.

Long-term use of this medication during lactation can provoke the development of persistent constipation in the child, as well as impaired intestinal motility. Accordingly, Imodium is not used during lactation.

Children under 5 years of age are strictly prohibited from using this medicine. After 5 years, diarrhea therapy is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics of the child, paying attention to weight. The calculation is carried out as follows: for every 20 kg of weight, 1 tablet. The frequency of doses is 1-2 times a day. For children, it is recommended to use lozenges, as they are easier to dose. After resorption, you do not need to give it a drink, at least for a few minutes. The course of treatment is 1-2 days. If there is no effectiveness, the medicine is replaced with an analogue.

In elderly patients, intestinal motility naturally slows down due to decreased secretion. This fact should be taken into account, since there are often cases when, after taking Imodium tablets, patients complained of persistent constipation and difficulty in normalizing stool.

special instructions

It has been proven that the drug has little effect on the liver and kidneys. However, for patients who have pathologies in the functioning of these organs, it is important that constant monitoring is carried out.

Imodium

Description current as of 01/24/2015

Latin name: Imodium
ATX code: A07DA03
Active ingredient: Loperamide
Manufacturer: Janssen-Cilag (France), Johnson & Johnson (Russia), Gedeon Richter (Hungary)

Compound

The composition of the drug includes loperamide hydrochloride as an active substance. Additional capsule components: lactose, talc, corn starch, magnesium stearate. The capsule shell contains yellow iron oxide, titanium dioxide, erythrosine, black iron oxide, indigo carmine, gelatin.

Release form

The medicine is available in capsules and lozenges.

pharmachologic effect

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

The medicine acts as an antidiarrheal agent. Its active substance is a synthetic selective inhibitor of opioid receptors. It affects the cells of the intestinal walls. The release of acetylcholine and prostaglandins in the gastrointestinal tract is blocked by affecting the functions of cholinergic and adrenergic neurons.

After taking Imodium, an increase in the tone of the anal sphincter and rectum is observed. Feces are better retained, and the urge to defecate becomes less frequent. Intestinal motility decreases. The contents travel through the gastrointestinal tract longer.

The drug normalizes the amount of mucus in the intestinal lumen by reducing its secretion. It also improves the absorption of fluids and electrolytes from the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the likelihood of dehydration and problems with electrolyte balance, which often appear with diarrhea. The active substance reduces pain that can be caused by spasm of the smooth muscles of the intestinal wall.

The medicine is easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It works quickly. It is broken down in the liver and excreted mainly with bile and feces. Half-life is 9-14 hours. The systemic impact is negligible.

Indications for use of Imodium

Indications for the use of Imodium: the need for symptomatic treatment of acute and chronic diarrhea. Recommended for use for traveler's diarrhea. In this case, the drug is used for two days. But whatever the indications for the use of Imodium, the use of this drug should be discontinued if bloody discharge appears in the stool until the cause is determined.

Contraindications

This drug should not be used if you are hypersensitive to its components. In addition, the following contraindications are known:

Prescribe with caution for liver dysfunction. Before using the drug, contraindications must be excluded.

Side effects

Adverse reactions may depend on the nature of the disease:

In addition, the following side effects are known:

The medicine may cause drowsiness, so when using it, it is not advisable to perform work that involves the use of dangerous mechanisms.

During clinical trials, the most commonly reported adverse reactions that are characteristic of diarrhea syndrome are: abdominal pain, nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, discomfort and excessive fatigue, vomiting, dizziness, flatulence. Thus, it is difficult to distinguish these manifestations from side effects.

Instructions for use of Imodium (Method and dosage)

The drug should be used only after consultation with a doctor. Only a specialist knows how to use Imodium, what it will help with in each specific case and how long it should be used. In the case of acute and chronic diarrhea, 2 capsules are usually used at the beginning of the course. Instructions for the use of Imodium for children over 6 years old indicate that in this case, as a rule, they are given one capsule per day.

For the purpose of maintenance therapy, the dosage is adjusted so that bowel movements occur 1-2 times a day. As a rule, it ranges from 1 to 6 capsules for adults. The maximum dosage is no more than 8 capsules. Children over 6 years old are given no more than 3 capsules.

For those taking Imodium tablets, the instructions for use advise that they should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve for a few seconds, after which they should be swallowed without liquid.

In case of acute diarrhea, the initial dosage is 2 tablets for adults and 1 tablet for children over 6 years of age. If the drug works successfully, it is continued to be taken one tablet after each bowel movement in case of loose stools.

The initial daily dose for chronic diarrhea is 2 tablets for adults and 1 tablet for children. Then the dosage is adjusted individually so that the frequency of stool is 1-2 times a day. Every day an adult patient can take from 1 to 6 tablets. The maximum dose should not exceed 8 tablets. For children, dosages are calculated based on weight (3 tablets per 20 kg, but not more than 8 tablets).

If, in case of acute diarrhea, the effect of the drug is not observed for two days after use, its use should be stopped immediately and another medicine should be selected. When the patient begins to have normal stools or does not have them for 12 hours or more, the drug is also discontinued.

Overdose

In case of an overdose, symptoms of central nervous system depression may appear: stupor, drowsiness, loss of coordination, miosis, muscle hypertonicity, etc. In addition, urinary retention and a set of symptoms reminiscent of intestinal obstruction are possible.

Children when taking the drug are more sensitive to the effects on the central nervous system.

Naloxone can be used as an antidote. It may need to be reapplied as Imodium lasts longer. To identify possible symptoms of overdose, the patient should be observed for two days. Treatment is symptomatic. Gastric lavage and the use of activated carbon are possible.

Interaction

Combination with P-glycoprotein blockers can lead to an increase in plasma loperamide levels by at least 2-3 times.

Terms of sale

Available without a prescription.

Storage conditions

The medicine should be stored in a dry place at room temperature.

Best before date

5 years. This product cannot be used after the expiration date, which is indicated on the original packaging.

Imodium analogs

In the pharmacy chain you can find the following analogues of Imodium:

All medications have their own application characteristics. Imodium analogues are not recommended for use without consulting a doctor. If the drug turns out to be ineffective, you need to consult a specialist before purchasing another replacement product.

The price of analogues, as a rule, is noticeably lower than the cost of Imodium.

Imodium for children

Only a specialist knows what the tablets will help with in each specific case and how to take them for children under 6 years of age, so they should be given under strict medical supervision.

Imodium for children over 6 years of age should be given in lower dosages than for adults. They are determined by a specialist individually.

It is not advisable to give Imodium to children under 6 years of age in capsule form.

Imodium during pregnancy and lactation

Imodium should be used with caution during pregnancy. It does not have a teratogenic, embryotoxic or mutagenic effect on the fetus. During pregnancy, it may be prescribed if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risk to the child.

Cannot be used during breastfeeding. If admission is necessary, discontinuation of breastfeeding should be considered.

Intestinal disorders can occur suddenly, ruining all your plans for the day. Especially when it comes to irritable bowel syndrome, which occurs due to stress and nervous tension.

Therefore at hand Always have anti-diarrhea tablets, capable of neutralizing the manifestations of diarrhea in the shortest possible time. One such drug is Imodium. It slows down intestinal motility, reducing the urge to defecate. We will discuss further how to use Imodium anti-diarrhea tablets and what you need to know.

In its chemical composition, loperamide is similar to the cells of the intestinal mucosa, so the body tolerates it well.

The drug molecules act on opioid receptors, suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandins and acetylcholines.

Loperamide has a selective effect, that is, it affects exclusively the intestinal mucosa, without reducing the concentration of attention and the speed of psychomotor reactions. Its effectiveness can also be described by the following therapeutic manifestations:

regulates the production of mucus by the cells of the intestinal mucosa;
increased tone of the rectum and sphincter, which dulls diarrhea, reducing urge;
normalization of the absorption of nutrients in the intestines, which avoids dehydration and disturbances in water-salt balance;
decreased spasm of smooth muscles, which helps eliminate unpleasant pain in the abdomen;
slowing down intestinal motility.

The drug is metabolized by liver cells, after which it is completely eliminated from the body without accumulating in soft tissues.

The period of complete elimination is 10-12 hours.

Does it help with diarrhea?

The drug reduces intestinal motility, helping to reduce the urge to defecate.

It is effective for diarrhea non-infectious nature

In cases where pathogenic bacteria are the cause of diarrhea, Imodium is used as an adjuvant, with an emphasis on antibiotics.

Release form and composition

The drug is produced in the form of lozenges, as well as in the form of gelatin-coated capsules.

Capsules are packaged in plastic blisters of 10 pieces. One package contains 1 or 2 blisters.

Imodium tablets, the price of which ranges from 250 to 500 rubles depending on the quantity, are highly effective in the treatment of diarrhea.

Dosage and application regimen

The tablets are intended for resorption in the oral cavity. To do this, it is placed under the tongue or behind the cheek, where it slowly dissolves. In the presence of acute diarrhea, use 1 tablet every 3-4 hours. As maintenance therapy, the drug can be used twice a day, morning and evening. If diarrhea has not decreased on the second day, a decision is made to discontinue this medication and replace it with another.

Taking this medicine does not affect the fullness of the stomach and intestines.

The maximum daily dose is 15-16 mg, which is equal to 8 tablets. Their intake is divided into equal periods of time, which ensures maximum effect.

Your doctor will tell you how to take the pills if you have other diseases.

Indications for use

Imodium is prescribed in the presence of diarrhea of various etiologies. For bacterial diarrhea, it acts as an adjuvant in complex therapy. If diarrhea is a consequence of systemic diseases and disturbances of the intestinal microflora, it can be used as the main medicine for diarrhea.

If there is an intestinal disorder caused by pathogenic microflora, treatment is supplemented with medications such as:

Antibiotics (Nifuroxazide, Ceftriaxone, Cefazolin) - help destroy bacteria not only in the intestines, but throughout the body.
Enterosorbents (Sorbex, Laktofiltrum, Polysorb) - help reduce the concentration of toxic substances produced by bacteria by gluing and neutralizing them.
Probiotics (Linex, Bifiform, Acipol) - replenish the deficiency of benign bacteria in the intestines by seeding the mucous membrane.

If diarrhea has other causes (stress, diseases of the stomach and intestines), the following may be included in the course of treatment:

enzymes;
diuretics and choleretic drugs;
drugs that normalize pH;
antidepressants.

Contraindications

Considering the fact that the drug has a local effect and practically does not enter the general bloodstream However, there are some contraindications for use that should be taken into account when choosing anti-diarrhea medications. These include:

the presence of ulcerative colitis, accompanied by profuse and prolonged diarrhea;
severe constipation (no bowel movements for more than 4 days);
bloating and increased gas formation;
intestinal pathologies, in which it is extremely dangerous to reduce its motility;
in the presence of blood and pus in the stool;
acute dysentery, which is characterized by vomiting and high fever;
intestinal obstruction not associated with diarrhea;
diverticulosis;
first trimester of pregnancy;
children under 5 years of age, due to the presence of a high dosage of loperamide.

Also, you should not use this drug if surgical interventions have been performed on the intestines, due to the high likelihood of developing stagnant processes.

Nuances of use for special categories of patients

Despite the fact that loperamide practically does not penetrate into the blood, there is evidence that the drug can pass into breast milk and be passed on to the baby.

Children under 5 years old Absolutely forbidden use this medicine. After 5 years, diarrhea therapy is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics of the child, paying attention to weight. The calculation is carried out as follows: for every 20 kg of weight, 1 tablet. The frequency of doses is 1-2 times a day. For children, it is recommended to use lozenges, as they are easier to dose. After resorption, you do not need to give it a drink, at least 10-15 minutes. The course of treatment is 1-2 days. If there is no effectiveness, the medicine is replaced with an analogue.

Minimum dosages are prescribed and supplemented with probiotics.

special instructions

Overdose and adverse reactions

In cases where the dosage of Imodium has been increased, overdose symptoms may appear, such as:

intestinal obstruction;
constipation;
hand tremors;
depression of the central nervous system;
increased drowsiness;
apathy;
slow pulse and breathing.

If an overdose is detected, symptomatic treatment is carried out according to the following scheme:

Artificial ventilation and cardiac massage if the person is not breathing and is in a coma.
Washing the stomach and intestines to reduce the concentration of the active substance and the resulting toxins.
Introduction of sorbents: activated carbon, Polysorb.
Introduction of an antidote capable of neutralizing the activity of loperamide - Naloxone. It may be necessary to administer it several times, since the process of elimination and breakdown of loperamide is several times higher.

In the presence of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, as well as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, side effects may develop such as:

colic in the intestines;
dry mouth and severe thirst;
constipation;
flatulence;
nausea and vomiting;
gastralgia.

The most dangerous manifestation during treatment with Imodium is an allergic reaction, which is manifested by symptoms such as:

swelling of the mucous membranes;
rapid pulse;
noise and ringing in the ears;
semi-fainting state;
skin rash and itching;
anaphylactic shock and angioedema.

The rapid development of anaphylaxis can put a person into a state of coma, as well as provoke cessation of breathing and heartbeat.

If you are prone to allergies, before starting to take the medicine worth a try. To do this, 1/10 of the tablet is placed under the tongue for 10-15 minutes, observing the condition. If an acute allergic reaction develops, it is necessary to administer antihistamines or glucocorticosteroids to the patient. If there is no heartbeat, adrenaline is administered.

Drug interactions

When loperamide is taken simultaneously with cholestyramine, there is a decrease in its effectiveness due to neutralization of the molecules.

Storage and release from pharmacies

The drug is stored in a cool dry place, out of reach of children. Dispensed without a doctor's prescription. Shelf life – 5 years.

After the specified date, the medicine should not be used.

Analogues

Identical effects on the intestines, but different in composition, which will help with diarrhea, are medications such as:

Atoxil - 210-220 rubles per pack of 10 sachets;
Smecta - 25-30 rubles for 1 package;
Hilak forte – 30 ml 250-270 rubles;
Nifuroxazide – 180-230 rubles;
Stoperan - 260-280 rubles.

Synonyms

Identical in composition, where the main active ingredient is loperamide, are drugs such as:

Loperamide – 7-15 rubles;
Loperamide hydrochloride – 25-35 rubles;
Lopedium - 28-50 rubles.

Watch a video about the drug

Every person who has ever suffered from diarrhea knows how important it is to have tablets on hand that can quickly eliminate this very unpleasant phenomenon. After all Diarrhea is not only debilitating, but also a very dangerous condition that can lead to dehydration. Imodium for diarrhea is more expensive than similar drugs, but it can relieve all symptoms in a short time. And this is important, because diarrhea disrupts the usual way of life and interferes with social communication. For example, it is difficult to sit quietly at a performance or learn to drive a car if you have to go to the toilet every 10-15 minutes. It turns out that the cost of the drug is the price of a calm and measured life.

General characteristics of the drug

Most often, the home medicine cabinet contains Imodium lozenges for diarrhea, although this drug is also available in the form of gelatin capsules, solution and classic tablets.

The active component of this medication is loperamide. And although other medications of this drug group contain the same active substance, Imodium lozenges for diarrhea begin to act faster, even at the stage of being in the oral cavity.

Loperamide binds to special receptors on the intestinal walls, thereby reducing the tone and peristalsis of the smooth muscles of the organ. Due to the slowdown of peristalsis, the time period for the passage of intestinal contents increases. The active substance helps to increase sphincter tone, as a result of which feces are retained and the urge to defecate occurs infrequently. The drug begins to act almost immediately after ingestion, and the therapeutic effect lasts up to 6 hours.

The tablets have a pleasant mint taste, so even children can easily take them.

Indications for use

Imodium for diarrhea is not prescribed by a doctor in all cases. Indications are loose stools, which are caused by the following factors:

allergic;
psychological;
medicinal;
radial.

In addition, Imodium is also taken for diarrhea, which is caused by a sharp change in diet, deterioration of intestinal motility and absorption, as well as to stabilize stool in people with an ileostomy.

Imodium for poisoning and infectious diseases of the digestive organs can only be prescribed in complex therapy. This drug alone will not give any effect in such cases..

You should not take antidiarrheals immediately if you have poisoning or rotavirus. In this case, the removal of toxins slows down and recovery is delayed.

Contraindications

The drug has certain contraindications that cannot be ignored, these include:

special sensitivity to individual ingredients that are included in the medication;
volvulus;
ulcerative colitis in the acute stage;
diverticulosis;
pseudomembranous enterocolitis;
dysentery, salmonellosis, botulism and other infectious diseases;
first 3 months of pregnancy;
Breastfeeding period.

In addition, children from 2 years of age can take Imodium only in the form of a solution, and children from 5 years of age are allowed lozenges.

Use for infectious diseases

Although the instructions for use state that the drug is not effective for infectious diseases of the digestive tract, doctors sometimes prescribe Imodium for the treatment of such pathologies.

For dysentery, salmonellosis or rotavirus, this medication is most often prescribed not from the first day of the disease, but during the recovery process. As part of complex therapy, imodium promotes:

restoration of normal motor skills;
increasing the time stool remains in the intestines, thereby improving the absorption of nutrients;
reducing the tone of the anus, due to which the urge to lower down occurs less frequently.

If there is a suspicion of an infectious intestinal disease, you should not start taking an antidiarrheal drug from the first day of illness. There will be no effect; on the contrary, toxic substances will remain in the body, slowing down recovery.

Dosage of the drug

The instructions for use describe in great detail the method of administration and dosage depending on the age and severity of the condition. In this case, the capsules are swallowed whole, ordinary tablets are placed on the tongue, they completely disintegrate in a few minutes, the solution is dripped into a small volume of water, and the lozenges are slowly dissolved in the oral cavity.

For severe diarrhea, adults are prescribed 4 mg of the drug, then drink 2 mg after each loose stool.. We must not forget that the maximum permissible daily dose should not be more than 16 mg.

If the medication is prescribed in solution, then the starting dose for an adult is 60 drops. After this, drink 30 drops after each loose bowel movement. The permissible daily dosage should not exceed 180 drops.

If diarrhea is chronic, then adults are recommended to drink 4 mg of imodium per day.

For loose stools in children over 5 years of age, the medicine is prescribed in a starting dose of 2 mg, after which the same volume of the drug is given after each bowel movement. The daily volume should not exceed 8 mg.

If the medicine is prescribed in drops, then the child is first given 30 drops, after which the same amount of solution is given 3 more times a day. The daily dose should not be more than 120 drops in 4 doses.

For chronic diarrhea, children over 5 years old are prescribed 30 drops per day.. Children from 2 to 5 years old are prescribed 5 ml of solution for every 10 kg of weight, which is 1 measuring container. Usually this dose is given up to 3 times a day. If the urge to go down does not occur within 12 hours or the stool has become formed, the drug is discontinued.

In exceptional cases, imodium drops can also be prescribed to children under 2 years of age. In this case, the dosage is calculated individually by the attending physician.

Side effects

Imodium has quite a few possible side effects, these include the following conditions:

Allergic skin rashes, atypical drowsiness, persistent dizziness and electrolyte imbalance in the body.
A feeling of dryness in the mouth, intestinal colic, a feeling of discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, constipation and bloating.
Sometimes there may be prolonged urinary retention, and even more rarely, intestinal obstruction.

When you dissolve mint tablets, you may experience a burning sensation and itching of the tongue.. Side effects do not occur in all patients who take Imodium, but only in a small percentage. But if any health problems occur, the drug should be immediately discontinued and a doctor should be consulted to adjust the treatment.

Overdose and its treatment

An overdose of a drug is possible in only a few cases:

If a person self-medicates and does not know how much medicine to take.
If a child finds abandoned pills and mistakes them for candy.
If a person tries to get rid of diarrhea faster and deliberately overestimates the prescribed dose.

If too much medication has been taken, intoxication of the entire body occurs, which is manifested by the following symptoms:

coordination of movements is impaired, the person falls into a stupor;
there is abnormal drowsiness and muscle weakness;
blood pressure increases;
respiratory depression occurs.

In case of severe drug poisoning, intestinal obstruction is possible.

Treatment of overdose comes down to gastric lavage, taking adsorbents and administering an antidote.. The antidote to imodium is naloxone, which is administered at the first sign of an overdose. It should be borne in mind that the therapeutic effect of naloxone is shorter than that of imodium, so it is recommended to re-administer it after some time.

The patient after an overdose requires constant monitoring, as late complications may develop.

If a child is poisoned by an antidiarrheal drug, immediately call an ambulance or take the child to the hospital on their own. Children have weak immunity and internal organs are not fully formed, so the consequences of a medication overdose can be unpredictable.

Features of application

To ensure that treatment with Imodium is as effective as possible, you should adhere to certain recommendations:

If after two days of taking an antidiarrheal drug there is no improvement, you need to consult a doctor to clarify the diagnosis. A series of tests may be necessary to determine whether an infection is causing the diarrhea.
It is not advisable for small children under the age of 5 to be prescribed medicine in capsules. In this case, it is better to prescribe a solution or lozenges.
If side effects such as constipation or severe bloating occur, treatment with the drug should be stopped.
In those patients who suffer from chronic liver diseases, the functions of the central nervous system must be constantly monitored.
When treating diarrhea, it is very important to organize plenty of drinking to replenish lost fluid. In addition, it is recommended to take rehydron solution or rice water to replenish electrolytes in the body.
When treating with imodium, you should be careful when working with precision machinery or driving a car. During this period, concentration and overall reaction may be slightly reduced..

All medications in the home medicine cabinet are regularly reviewed and medications with expired expiration dates are thrown away.

Features of the use of medicine for diarrhea in children

Although all adults know that they can start giving any medications to children only with the permission of a doctor, many parents self-medicate. This is strictly forbidden, as there may be a significant deterioration in health. When treating children with imodium, the following rules must be observed:

When calculating the dosage for a child, be sure to pay the pediatrician’s attention to the exact weight and age of the little patient.
If the drug is prescribed in drops, then carefully measure the required dose, and then dilute it in a teaspoon of water and only then give it to the child.
For young children, if they refuse to take the medicine, you can dilute the drops in a spoon of juice or tea.
Lozenges can be given to children who have already reached 5 years of age.

It must be remembered that all medicines should be stored out of the reach of small children. Imodium tablets have a pleasant taste and smell, so they should not be left in a visible place to avoid poisoning. Kids may well mistake them for candy.

Interaction with other drugs

The effectiveness of Imodium may be reduced if a person is also taking cholestyramine.. When an antidiarrheal agent is taken with trimoxazole or ritonavir, the bioavailability of imodium is increased. This occurs due to inhibition of its metabolism during the initial passage through liver cells.

If diarrhea manifests itself at the most inopportune moment, do not be upset. Imodium can quickly stop this unpleasant phenomenon and restore the joy of life to a person. But you need to remember that this drug is effective only if the diarrhea is not caused by infections. Otherwise, it can only be prescribed in complex treatment, together with other drugs. It is advisable to start taking Imodium only after examination by a doctor and passing all the necessary tests.