The preparation 'Imodium': instructions for use

The drug "Imodium" belongs to the group of antidiarrheal symptomatic means. It is available in capsules, they are gelatinous and firm. Inside is a white powder. Those who are going to take the drug "Imodium", its composition is most interested. One capsule contains 2 milligrams of loperamide hydrochloride. And the analogue of this drug is Imodium Plus - the instruction describes this: it is chewable tablets that have the smell of vanilla and mint. In addition to loperamide hydrochloride, they also contain simethicone - 125 milligrams in one tablet.

On the Imodium capsules, the instruction manual says that they are available in cardboard packs, they contain six or 20 pieces in blisters.

pharmachologic effect

The remedy is anti-diarrheal. The main substance in its composition, binds to opioid receptors located in the wall of the intestine, reduces peristalsis. In addition, there is a significant increase in the tone of the anal sphincter, the time of passage through the intestine of its contents increases, and the incontinence of stool decreases. The urge to defecate becomes more rare.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption of the active substance is approximately 40 percent after taking Imodium. Instructions for use also reads: the product is excreted from the body in about 10-14 hours together with feces.

Dosage

This drug is always prescribed to take inside. On the dosage of Imodium, the instructions for use tell the following: elderly people and adults with acute diarrhea should use 4 mg as an initial dose, and then 2 mg in the case of a loose stool after the act of defecation. This tool is prescribed only to those children who are 6. Their dose is 2 mg, both at the beginning of treatment, and after the act of defecation. If diarrhea is chronic, adults and children are prescribed 4 mg and 2 mg respectively, as the initial dose. Then you need to take the drug so that a day there are not more than two acts of defecation. It should be borne in mind that the maximum permissible daily dose of the drug "Imodium" (instruction for use confirms this) should not exceed 16 milligrams for adult patients. If the chair is absent for more than 12 hours or just normalized, then the remedy can already be canceled.

Side effects

As with any other means, Imodium has a number of side effects that can be caused by its administration:

- bloating, vomiting, constipation, nausea, abdominal discomfort, intestinal colic or even obstruction (digestive system);

- decrease in the content of electrolytes, hypovolemia (metabolism);

- dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness (CNS);

- skin rash.

Indications

The drug "Imodium" instruction recommends taking in case of acute or chronic diarrhea, as well as if you need to adjust the stool in patients with ileostomy.

Contraindications

Do not take this medication if you have acute ulcerative colitis, acute dysentery, diverticulosis, intestinal obstruction. Pregnant and nursing is also better to abandon its use, especially in the first trimester. Children under six years of age, the drug is not prescribed, however, as well as people with hepatic insufficiency. The latter can be prescribed with great care.

special instructions

If you are prescribed the drug "Imodium", the instructions for use recommend that you follow a diet and monitor the drinking regime. If diarrhea with an admixture of blood, and also there is a high temperature, it is worth not to admit. Do not drive while using this medication.

Thus, the remedy is effective, but before applying, you need to ask the advice of a specialist.