Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules (Loperamide 2mg) – 30 Capsules (Brand May Vary)

What are anti-diarrhoea capsules? 

These anti-diarrhoea capsules contain 2mg of loperamide hydrochloride, a medicine that works to relieve diarrhoea by making the stools more solid and the bowel movements less frequent. These anti-diarrhoea capsules can be used to treat short-term diarrhoea as well as diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). 

What is the recommended dosage?

For adults and children over 12, the recommended dosage for these anti-diarrhoea capsules is two tablets to start treatment, followed by one tablet after each loose bowel movement. Do not take these anti-diarrhoea capsules for diarrhoea attacks that last longer than 48 hours, and do not take more than 6 tablets in a 24 hour period.

If you are an adult with IBS that has been professionally diagnosed by a doctor, you may take these anti-diarrhoea capsules for diarrhoea relief for up to 2 weeks. You still must not exceed the stated dose, take for an attack that lasts longer than 48 hours, or take more than 6 tablets in one 24 hour period. 

How does loperamide treat diarrhoea? 

These anti-diarrhoea capsules contain 2mg of the active ingredient loperamide hydrochloride. This medicine works to quickly and effectively relieve diarrhoea by slowing down the food that goes through your gut, letting your body absorb more water from your intestines and, as a result, making the stools more solid and the bowel movements less frequent. 

What causes diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea can occur when extra fluid leaks into your bowel, or fluid isn’t being absorbed from the contents of your bowel, causing loose or watery stools. It can be really unpleasant, but it isn’t usually anything to worry about and it’s very common. There are various potential causes of diarrhoea:

• 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

Are these anti-diarrhoea capsules suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women? 

Ask your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking these anti-diarrhoea capsules if you are pregnant, think you are pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant. Do not take these anti-diarrhoea capsules if you are breastfeeding, as small amounts may get into your milk. Speak to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist for suitable alternatives.

Are these anti-diarrhoea capsules suitable for children? 

These anti-diarrhoea capsules are not suitable for children under 12. Speak to a Chemist4U pharmacist for suitable alternatives for your child if they are suffering from diarrhoea, or browse our range of alternative diarrhoea relief products. 

When should this medicine not be used? 

These anti-diarrhoea capsules should be safe for use for most adults and children over 12. You should not, however, take this medicine if: 

• You are allergic to loperamide or any other ingredient in this medicine

• You have severe diarrhoea after taking antibiotics

• You are having a flare-up of an inflammatory bowel condition, such as 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 loperamide tablets if:

• You have AIDS and your stomach becomes swollen (in this case, stop taking these tablets immediately and talk to your doctor)

• You are intolerant to some sugars (these capsules contain lactose)

• You suffer from liver disease

• You have diarrhoea that lasts for more than 48 hours

• You have severe diarrhoea

If you are taking any prescribed medicines and need guidance on diarrhoea relief, consult a Chemist4U pharmacist, especially if you are taking any of the following:

• 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)

Are there any side effects? 

As with all medicines, there is a possibility that you may experience side effects when taking these anti-diarrhoea capsules. Seek medical help immediately f you experience any of the following side effects: 

• Allergic reaction (symptoms can include unexplained wheezing, shortness of breath, passing out or swelling of the face)

• Skin rashes, including blistering or peeling skin 

• Loss or reduced level of consciousness 

Stop taking these anti-diarrhoea capsules and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects: 

• Itchiness or hives

• Stomach pain

• Swollen stomach

• Difficulty passing water

• Severe constipation

• Miosis (narrowing of the pupils of the eye)

Other, less severe, side effects can include: 

• Feeling or being sick

• Constipation

• Wind

• Headache

• Dizziness or drowsiness

• Indigestion

• Dry mouth

• Tiredness

Why do I need to answer questions to buy these anti-diarrhoea capsules?

You do not need a prescription for these Anti-Diarrhoea Capsules, however, you will be asked to complete a short medical questionnaire by your Chemist4U pharmacist before we can take your order. This includes some simple questions that all pharmacies legally are required to ask before supplying this kind of product. This helps our pharmacy team to be sure that these Anti-Diarrhoea capsules are the best choice for you.

Storage information

Store in a cool, dry area below 25°C. Keep this medicine in its original box and do not use after the expiry date, referring to the last day of the month stated. Keep out of reach and sight of children.

Important Information

This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist4U 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