Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Imodium (Loperamide).
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS): People with AIDS should stop taking Imodium (Loperamide) and contact their doctor if they experience abdominal swelling or distention.
Constipation: If you develop constipation, stop taking Imodium (Loperamide) and contact your doctor.
Drowsiness or dizziness: Imodium (Loperamide) may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Imodium (Loperamide) affects you.
Fluids and electrolytes: The loss of fluids and electrolytes (e.g., chloride, sodium) can occur if you have diarrhea. Imodium (Loperamide) helps with the symptoms of diarrhea but will not correct any fluid or electrolyte problems caused by diarrhea. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether you need fluid and electrolyte replacement, also referred to as oral rehydration therapy.
Improvement in diarrhea: If your diarrhea has not improved after 48 hours of treatment with Imodium (Loperamide), stop taking it and contact your doctor.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Imodium (Loperamide) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Imodium (Loperamide) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Imodium (Loperamide), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Medical conditions: Imodium (Loperamide) should not be used by people with intestinal infections such as dysentery, which is often associated with severe diarrhea, fever, and blood in the stool, and other infections of the gut. A more serious problem of the bowel may develop if Imodium (Loperamide) is used by some people with acute ulcerative colitis or a serious form of diarrhea associated with antibiotic use.
Pregnancy: Imodium (Loperamide) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Imodium (Loperamide), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Imodium (Loperamide) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Imodium (Loperamide), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: Imodium (Loperamide) is not recommended for use in children under the age of 12 except on the advice of a physician. Imodium (Loperamide) should not be given to children under 6 years of age without medical prescription and supervision. Imodium (Loperamide) tablets are not suitable for children under 6 years of age. Imodium (Loperamide) should not be used for children under 2 years of age. (See "Who should not take Imodium (Loperamide).")