Brand name:

Imodium A-D

Pronounced: ih-MODE-ee-um

Generic name: Loperamide hydrochloride

Other brand names: Diarrid, Pepto Diarrhea Control

What this drug is used for:

These products control diarrhea. Imodium A-D is available in caplet and liquid form. Diarrid and Pepto Diarrhea Control come only in caplets.

How should you take this medication?

Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water or other clear liquids until the problem clears up.

* ADULTS

Caplets

The usual dosage is 2 caplets after your first loose bowel movement and 1 caplet after each loose movement thereafter. Do not take more than 4 caplets each 24 hours unless your doctor directs.

Liquid

The usual dose is 4 teaspoonfuls after your first loose bowel movement and 2 teaspoonfuls after each loose movement thereafter. Do not take more than 8 teaspoonfuls each 24 hours unless your doctor directs.

* CHILDREN 6 TO 11 YEARS OLD

Caplets

The usual dose is 1 caplet after the first loose bowel movement and one-half caplet after each loose movement thereafter. Children 9 to 11 should not take more than 3 caplets a day; children aged 6 to 8 should take no more than 2 caplets.

Liquid

Give 2 teaspoonfuls after the first loose bowel movement and 1 teaspoonful after each loose movement that follows. The total daily dosage for children 9 to 11 should not be more than 6 teaspoonfuls; for children 6 to 8 the maximum is 4 teaspoonfuls.

* CHILDREN 2 TO 5 YEARS OLD

Children this age should take only Imodium A-D liquid. The usual dose is 1 teaspoonful after the first loose bowel movement and 1 teaspoonful after each additional loose movement. Do not give a child this young more than 3 teaspoonfuls a day.

Do not take this medication if...

* You have a fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit.
* You notice blood or mucus in your bowel movement.
* Any other product containing loperamide hydrochloride has given you hives or a severe allergic reaction.

Special warnings about this medication

Do not use this medication for more than 2 days without your doctor's approval.

If you are taking antibiotics or have a history of liver disease, check with your doctor before taking any of these products.

Overdosage:

* Symptoms of overdose with one of these products may include:

Constipation, nausea, stupor

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.