Loperamide
Brand: Imodium
Key warning
Boxed warning (PRESCRIPTION capsules): torsades de pointes, cardiac arrest and sudden death at higher-than-recommended doses; contraindicated under age 2. OTC Imodium carries no boxed warning, but the same dose ceiling is the reason — abuse at high doses is what caused the cardiac deaths.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Stomach cramps
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
Key interactions & cautions
- Avoid other QT-prolonging drugs
- Certain drugs raise its levels (interacting inhibitors)
- Adds drowsiness with sedatives
Counseling points
- Do not exceed the recommended dose
- Stop and seek care for bloody stools or fever
- Stay hydrated
- Not for diarrhea lasting beyond a couple days
- Report irregular heartbeat or fainting
High-yield study aid for exam prep — not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.