Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules (Loperamide 2mg) – 6 Capsules (Brand May Vary)

What are Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules? 

Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules are an effective treatment for short-term attacks of diarrhoea, as well as diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) when diagnosed by a doctor. These capsules contain 2mg of the active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride. 

 

Why do I have diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea can be really uncomfortable and unpleasant, but fortunately it isn't usually something to worry about and, more often than not, it goes away in a few days. Some of the possible causes of diarrhoea include: 

 

• A food intolerance

• A food allergy

• Food poisoning

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• A viral infection, such as norovirus.

• A bacterial infection, such as E.coli

• A reaction to a medication

• A bowel or intestinal disease

• Coeliac disease

 

How do Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules work? 

Using 2mg of the active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride, Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules work by slowing down your overactive bowel, allowing your body to absorb fluids more easily and, in result, ease your diarrhoea. These loperamide capsules are intended for short-term use. 

 

What is the recommended dosage? 

The dosage for this anti-diarrhoea treatment is slightly different depending on whether you are taking them for short-term diarrhoea or for diarrhoea caused by IBS. 

 

For relief of short-term diarrhoea:

 

Adults and children over the age of 12 should take two capsules to start treatment, then one capsule after each loose bowel movement. Do not take for attacks lasting longer than 48 hours. You must not take more than 6 tablets in a 24-hour period.

 

For relief of diarrhoea caused by IBS: 

 

Adults over 18 should take two capsules to start treatment, then one capsule after each loose bowel movement. IBS sufferers can use these anti-diarrhoea capsules for up to two weeks for repeat attacks, but you should not take for any one attack lasting longer than 48 hours. You must not take more than 6 tablets in a 24-hour period. Please note: your IBS must be diagnosed by a doctor. 

 

When suffering from diarrhoea, you are at risk of becoming dehydrated. You should always replace lost fluids by drinking more liquid or by using dehydration relief.

 

Who should take loperamide capsules? 

Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules are suitable for most adults and children over 12. You should not take loperamide capsules if: 

 

• You are allergic any of the ingredients of this medicine

• You have severe diarrhoea after taking antibiotics

• You are having a flare-up of an inflammatory bowel condition like ulcerative colitis

• You are constipated, or your stomach appears swollen

• You have acute dysentery, the symptoms of which may include blood in your stools and a high temperature

 

You should consult a doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules if you suffer from liver disease or AIDS, if you have diarrhoea that is severe or lasts longer than 48 hours, if your doctor has told you that you are intolerant to some sugars, or if you take any of the following prescribed medicines: 

 

• Ritonavir (used to treat HIV)

• Quinidine (used to treat abnormal heart rhythms or malaria)

• Oral desmopressin (used to treat excessive urination)

• Itraconazole or ketoconazole (used to treat fungal infections)

• Gemfibrozil (used to treat high cholesterol)

 

If you’re unsure or need any advice about taking Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules, do not hesitate to contact a Chemist4U pharmacist.

 

Can my child take these anti-diarrhoea capsules?

No, loperamide is not suitable for children under 12. For more information about anti-diarrhoea medicines suitable for children, please contact a Chemist4U pharmacist or browse our full range of anti-diarrhoea treatments. 

 

Are loperamide capsules suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women? 

 

• If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are trying to become pregnant, speak to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules

• If you are breastfeeding, you should not take loperamide capsules. This is because there is a chance that small amounts of the medicine could get into your milk. 

 

Will Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules make me drowsy?

It is possible, but not certain, that loperamide could make you feel drowsy, dizzy or sleepy. If you are feeling any drowsiness after taking loperamide, do not drive or use machinery. 

 

Are there any side effects?

As with all medicines, Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules can cause possible side effects in some people. Fortunately, these will most likely be mild. 

 

Common side effects can include: 

 

• Feeling sick

• Constipation

• Wind

• Headache 

 

Uncommon and rare side effects can be found in the patient information leaflet. If you need any advice or guidance regarding the side effects of loperamide, please feel free to consult a Chemist4U pharmacist.

 

More Information

This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.

Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.

Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.

Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.

 

Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction

For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.

If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:

• NHS Help & Advice on Drug Addiction
• Talk To Frank - Drug Addiction Help & Support