Loperamide: Uses, Side Effects, Dosing, and Safety
Loperamide is an over-the-counter medicine that helps control diarrhea by slowing the movement of food through the intestines. It is used for short-term relief of acute diarrhea, including diarrhea caused by travel, but it does not treat the underlying cause. Prescription loperamide may also be used for certain long-term diarrhea conditions under medical supervision.
Use loperamide only as directed on the package or as prescribed, and do not exceed the recommended dose. Seek medical advice for bloody diarrhea, severe pain, dehydration, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A07DA03
- Generic
- Loperamide
- Class
- antidiarrheal
- Brands
- Imodium
- Availability
- behind_counter
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 10
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 8
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule, tablet
- Regions
- CN, US, EU, JP
- Monitoring
- cardiac-qt
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 2mg after each unformed stool
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- up to 8mg daily (OTC) or 16mg daily (prescription)
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 1-2mg based on weight
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- after each unformed stool, max based on age
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 2mg after each unformed stool
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may start at lower dose, max 8mg daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during first trimester unless benefits outweigh risks
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks
fetal monitoring as needed
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
avoid prolonged use near term due to potential neonatal withdrawal
neonatal assessment after birth
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse lowest effective dose
generally compatible with breastfeeding but monitor infant for constipation
observe infant for changes in bowel habits
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution due to increased sensitivity; risk of constipation and fecal impaction
monitor bowel function and hydration status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 2not recommended
contraindicated in children under 2 years due to risk of severe CNS depression
immediate medical attention if used
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children 2 12weight-based dosing, do not exceed recommended limits
use only under physician supervision; not for viral gastroenteritis
monitor for CNS effects and constipation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentreduce dose
use with caution in severe renal impairment; dose adjustment may be required
monitor renal function and electrolytes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severe hepatic impairmentreduce dose
use with caution in severe hepatic impairment; avoid in advanced liver disease
monitor liver function and for signs of toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
Original FDA approval date for loperamide
Drug class
ATC classification: A07FA02
Common uses
FDA-approved indications for loperamide
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism reducing intestinal motility
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 22, 2026. · Read our editorial policy