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Loperamide Drug Study

Assignment in Pharmacology for diarrhea

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Ed King Cubalan
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28 views3 pages

Loperamide Drug Study

Assignment in Pharmacology for diarrhea

Uploaded by

Ed King Cubalan
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Loperamide Drug Study

Generic Name:

Loperamide

Brand Names:

Imodium, Diamode

Drug Classification:

 Antidiarrheal

Mechanism of Action:

Loperamide works by slowing down the movement of the intestines. It binds to the opiate receptor in
the gut wall, inhibiting the release of acetylcholine and prostaglandins, thereby reducing peristalsis and
increasing transit time. This allows more time for water and electrolytes to be absorbed from the
intestinal contents, resulting in firmer stools and reduced frequency of bowel movements.

Indications:

Loperamide is used to treat:

 Acute diarrhea

 Chronic diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease

 Reducing the volume of discharge from ileostomies

Dosage and Administration:

Adults:

 Acute diarrhea: Initial dose of 4 mg, followed by 2 mg after each loose stool. Maximum daily
dose should not exceed 16 mg.

 Chronic diarrhea: Initial dose of 4-8 mg per day in divided doses. Maximum daily dose should not
exceed 16 mg.

Pediatrics:

 Not recommended for children under 2 years of age.

 For children aged 2-12 years, the dosage should be based on body weight and should be
administered under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Pharmacokinetics:

 Absorption: Poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

 Distribution: Limited distribution, primarily in the gastrointestinal tract.

 Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver.


 Excretion: Excreted mainly in the feces. The half-life is approximately 10.8 hours.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

 Constipation

 Nausea

 Abdominal cramps

 Dizziness

 Dry mouth

Serious side effects, though rare, may include:

 Severe constipation or ileus

 Toxic megacolon

 Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

Contraindications:

 Known hypersensitivity to loperamide or any of its components

 Acute dysentery (characterized by blood in stools and high fever)

 Acute ulcerative colitis

 Bacterial enterocolitis caused by invasive organisms (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella)

 Pseudomembranous colitis associated with the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics

Precautions:

 Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, as loperamide is extensively metabolized
in the liver.

 Discontinue use if abdominal distension or constipation develops.

 Not recommended for use in cases of diarrhea caused by bacterial infections, as it may worsen
the condition.

Interactions:

 CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives): May enhance the central nervous system depressant
effect.

 P-glycoprotein inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, ritonavir): May increase the concentration of


loperamide, increasing the risk of serious side effects.
 Other drugs that slow down gut movement (e.g., anticholinergics, opioids): May increase the
risk of severe constipation.

Monitoring:

 Monitor for signs of central nervous system toxicity, especially in children and in patients with
hepatic impairment.

 Monitor for symptoms of constipation and abdominal distension.

Patient Education:

 Take loperamide exactly as directed, and do not exceed the recommended dose.

 Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

 Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if dizziness or drowsiness occurs.

 Report any signs of severe constipation, abdominal pain, or other serious side effects to your
healthcare provider promptly.

 Do not use loperamide for more than 2 days without medical advice if symptoms persist.

Conclusion:

Loperamide is an effective antidiarrheal medication that helps to manage acute and chronic diarrhea by
slowing intestinal motility and increasing fluid absorption. While generally well-tolerated, it is essential
to adhere to the recommended dosage and be aware of potential side effects and interactions. Proper
patient education and monitoring can help ensure safe and effective use of this medication.

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