What is Imodium Original?
Imodium Original is an over-the-counter treatment that contains the active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride.
What is Imodium Original used for?
The treatment is used to relieve diarrhoea symptoms, harden stools and reduce frequency for people with both short-term diarrhoea and chronic conditions.
How does Imodium Original work?
Loperamide hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Imodium Original, is an ‘antimotility’ medicine. Antimotility treatments slow down overactive bowels, which means food takes more time to pass through the digestive tract. This allows your body to draw in more water from your intestines, making your stools harder and bowel movements less frequent.
How long does Imodium Original take to work?
The treatment works quite quickly. You should notice an improvement in your diarrhoea symptoms around an hour after taking it.
How should I take Imodium Original?
Adults and children aged 12 and above should take two tablets straight away, and then one tablet after each loose bowel movement. The maximum recommended daily dose is six tablets in a 24-hour period.
You should not take Imodium Original for more than 48 hours without consulting your GP.
Who can’t take Imodium Original?
Loperamide is safe for most adults and children aged 12 and above.
You should not give loperamide to children below the age of 12 unless a doctor has prescribed it. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their GP before taking loperamide.
There are some medications loperamide may interact badly with. Consult your GP or a pharmacist before using Imodium Original if you’re taking:
- Ritonavir
- Quinidine
- Itraconazole or ketoconazole
- Gemfibrozil
- Desmopressin
- Other treatments for stomach or bowel problems
What are the side effects of Imodium Original?
Many people will experience no or only very mild side effects when taking Imodium Original for a short period of time. Common side effects include:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Flatulence
In rare cases, some people may experience more serious side effects. Stop taking Imodium Original and seek immediate medical attention if you:
- Feel faint, less alert or have passed out
- Have lost balance or coordination
How should I store Imodium Original?
Imodium Original should be stored in a dry, cool environment that does not exceed 25°C.
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Authored by:
Carolina Goncalves
Superintendent
Pharmacist
Reviewed by:
Rehma Gill
Pharmacy
Manager
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Content last updated: 24 Aug 2023