Loperamide (Imodium)

Gastroenterology (Antidiarrheal)

Dosing & Administration

Adult Dose

4 mg PO initially, then 2 mg after each loose stool (Max 16 mg/day).

Pediatric Dose

Avoid in < 2 yrs. Weight-based dosing for > 2 yrs.

Renal Adjustment

No adjustment necessary.

Hepatic Adjustment

Use caution (can precipitate hepatic encephalopathy).

Safety & Special Populations

Pregnancy Category

C

Lactation Safety

Compatible.

Contraindications & Adverse Effects

Contraindications

  • Dysentery (bloody diarrhea with high fever)
  • Pseudomembranous colitis

Common Adverse Effects

  • Constipation
  • Abdominal cramps
  • QT prolongation / Torsades (at massive overdose)