Introduction
Loperamide is used in the treatment of diarrheal diseases. It is an opioid that exerts its effect in the intestine rather than in the central nervous system as most other opioids do. Loperamide inhibits intestinal activity and thus alleviates the symptoms of diarrhoea.
The drug is generally well tolerated. In rare cases, constipation, headaches and dizziness may occur. The drug is available without prescription and should be taken for a maximum of two days.
Definition
Loperamide is one of the peripherally active opioids. It does not exert its effect in the central nervous system, but in the intestine. Although loperamide overcomes the so-called blood–brain barrier, it is immediately removed again by special transporters.
Its chemical structure causes it to bind to certain opiod receptors in the intestinal wall. In this way, it causes an inhibition of muscular intestinal activity. The intestinal passage is shortened in case of acute infections or food intolerances.
Considerably less water is removed from the food pulp. The active ingredient loperamide enables increased water absorption due to reduced intestinal peristalsis. The stool remains longer in the intestine and thickens.
When can I take Loperamide?
Loperamide is used to relieve the symptoms of acute diarrhea. The treatment should not last longer than two days. If there is no improvement in symptoms during this period, a visit to a doctor is recommended.
Treatment with loperamide is recommended for adults and adolescents aged twelve years and older. Children under two years of age should not take loperamide. From the age of two years, preparations with a low dosage are available.
When should I not take loperamide?
Loperamide must not be taken if an allergic reaction to the active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride is known. Children under the age of 12 years must not be treated with the drug. If diarrhoea occurs together with fever as an accompanying symptom and/or bloody stool, we strongly advise against taking Loperamide. The same applies to diarrhoea that occurs after antibiotic therapy and acute attacks of ulcerative colitis. Chronic diarrhea is treated with Loperamide only on medical advice.