CapsulesClinical Overview
Loperamide Capsules (2mg) is a synthetic peripheral mu-opioid receptor agonist on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It binds to opioid receptors in the circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the gut wall, inhibiting peristaltic activity, prolonging gastrointestinal transit time, increasing water and electrolyte absorption, and enhancing anal sphincter tone. Indicated for control and symptomatic relief of acute non-specific diarrhea and chronic diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease or short bowel syndrome.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Adults: Initial dose is 4 mg (2 capsules) orally with water, followed by 2 mg (1 capsule) after each unformed stool. Maximum daily dose is 8 mg for self-medication (OTC) or 16 mg under medical supervision. Discontinue if clinical improvement is not seen within 48 hours.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Constipation, abdominal cramps, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth. Rare/Severe: Paralytic ileus, toxic megacolon (in active colitis), QTc prolongation, Torsades de Pointes, and cardiac arrest with supratherapeutic doses.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black Box Warning: High doses or abuse can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation, cardiac arrest). Contraindicated in children under 2 years of age, active bloody diarrhea (acute dysentery), acute ulcerative colitis, and bacterial enterocolitis (Salmonella, Shigella, C. difficile).
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or gastrointestinal treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered gastroenterologist or qualified medical practitioner before initiating, altering, or discontinuing any gastrointestinal medication or digestive therapy.