Loperamide (Imodium AD)
2 mg
Stop: Call 911 or get emergency help
Fainting or fast/irregular heartbeat; trouble breathing or swelling; blood or vomiting blood; hard/swollen/tender belly; severe dehydration/confusion or unable to keep fluids down.
Seek medical help first
Use this information only if you are unable to contact your provider. Then, contact your provider as soon as possible.
What it may treat & how much to take
- 1
Mild traveler's diarrhea
Loose/watery stools; cramps or urgency; travel remains unaffected; no fever or blood.
Take 2 tablets now, then 1 after each loose stool. Maximum 4/day for 2 days. Drink fluids.
- 2
Traveler's diarrhea that affects travel plans
Watery stools/strong cramps; plans affected; no fever/blood.
Take 2 tablets now, then 1 after each loose stool. Maximum 4/day for 2 days. Ask if antibiotic is needed.
- 3
Loose stools on an antibiotic
Mild loose stools after an antibiotic; no fever, bad belly pain, or blood.
Take 2 tablets now, then 1 after each loose stool. Maximum 4/day for 2 days.
- 4
Diarrhea with fever
Fever with diarrhea.
Contact provider.
How to take it
With or without food. Stop when stools form. Maximum 4 tablets/day for 2 days. Fluids first.
Important information
Too much can cause constipation, cramps, or deadly heart-rhythm problems. Get care if diarrhea lasts more than 2 days or worsens.
Common side effects
Constipation, belly cramps/bloating, dizziness, sleepiness/tiredness, dry mouth, nausea.
Do not take if
Blood or black/tarry stool; fever; mucus/pus; severe belly pain; or allergy to loperamide.
Ask your provider or pharmacist first if
Heart-rhythm problems, liver disease, ulcerative colitis/Crohn's, opioid medicine, or interacting medicines including ondansetron, azithromycin, fluconazole, or ciprofloxacin.
If pregnant or breastfeeding
Ask your provider. If needed, use the lowest dose for the shortest time. Fluids first.