Loperamide Capsules

GENERIC NAME: LOPERAMIDE (loe-PER-a-mide)

COMMON USES: This medicine is an antiperistaltic agent used to treat diarrhea.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. DRINK EXTRA FLUID while you are taking this medicine and while you have diarrhea. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

CAUTIONS: If your diarrhea does not improve within 48 hours or if you develop a fever, stop using this medicine and contact your doctor. IF YOU ARE TREATING YOURSELF, do not use this medicine if you have bloody diarrhea or a fever greater than 101 degrees F. Instead, check with your doctor. FOR WOMEN: IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience sudden abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating; constipation; nausea; or vomiting. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including other bowel conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, slowed breathing, drowsiness or deep sleep, and slow pulse.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children.

The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.