
Key information summary
Efficacy & effects
This medication is used for diarrheal disorders such as acute diarrhea and chronic diarrhea.
Dosage
1) Acute diarrhea: The initial dose of loperamide hydrochloride is 4mg taken orally, followed by 2mg with each occurrence of loose stools. The typical daily dose is 6-8mg, and the maximum daily dose is 16mg. 2) Chronic diarrhea: The initial dose of loperamide hydrochloride is 4mg taken orally, and 2mg should be given with each occurrence of loose stools until diarrhea is resolved. After that, doses should be adjusted based on individual patient needs.
Precautions
This medication should not be used in infants under 24 months old or in children with chronic diarrhea. It should also be avoided in patients with bacterial diarrhea accompanied by bloody stools or high fever, patients with acute ulcerative colitis, and patients with serious gastrointestinal conditions such as intestinal obstruction or megacolon. Additionally, it should not be used in patients with a history of allergic reactions to this medication or in patients with hemorrhagic colitis, nor should it be taken by patients with genetic conditions such as lactose intolerance. Patients with impaired liver function should use this medication cautiously and should closely monitor its effects on the central nervous system. If diarrhea symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or if chronic diarrhea does not improve within 10 days, usage should be discontinued and consultation with a physician or pharmacist is recommended. Due to the potential for severe fluid and electrolyte loss from diarrhea, especially in children, appropriate hydration and electrolyte replenishment are necessary. Fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, and other symptoms may occur while taking this medication, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Pregnant women in early pregnancy should carefully consider the risks and benefits of taking this medication, and breastfeeding women are advised against using it due to the possibility of minimal secretion in breast milk. This medication should only be administered to children under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and special caution is needed for children aged over 24 months and under 7 years due to the potential for excessive drug effects from immature liver function. Elderly patients may require careful dosage adjustments due to declining physiological functions. In cases of overdose, symptoms such as central nervous system depression, urinary retention, and intestinal obstruction may occur, necessitating immediate medical attention. This medication is not intended to treat the cause of diarrhea but rather to alleviate symptoms; therefore, if symptoms do not improve, additional treatment may be required. Finally, this medication may interact with certain drugs, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional if taking other medications.
Side effects
Hives, severe swelling (angioedema), toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, anaphylactic shock, and anaphylactic reactions (severe allergic reactions) Intestinal obstruction, toxic megacolon (severe swelling or urination abnormalities) Respiratory depression (difficulty breathing) in case of overdose



