Loperamide 2mg Capsules

What is Loperamide?

Loperamide capsules are a treatment for diarrhoea in adults and children aged 12 years and over. It is the generic version of a medicine called Imodium, which has been used for many years as an effective diarrhoea treatment.

What is Loperamide used for?

Loperamide is used to treat acute cases of diarrhoea. There are several causes of diarrhoea: infection, allergy, stress, appendicitis, or a bad reaction to food, medicine or alcohol. Acute cases often pass after a few days of rest, but more serious instances can result in dehydration, headaches, nausea or stomach pain. Importantly, loperamide will control the symptoms of diarrhoea but will not treat the underlying cause. Loperamide is also often used to treat occasional bouts of diarrhoea that occur with chronic bowel conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How does Loperamide work?

Loperamide works by slowing down bowel movements and allowing the bowel to absorb more water and electrolytes. The active ingredient, loperamide hydrochloride, affects the sensitivity of certain nerve receptors in the intestines. This reduces the frequency of muscular contractions, which slows down the passage of food and allows the intestines to better absorb water from the waste. As a result, bowel movements are firmer and occur less frequently.

You can combine Loperamide 2mg capsules with oral rehydration sachets (like Dioralyte) to ensure any lost fluids and electrolytes are replaced whilst you have diarrhoea.