Imodium is categorized as a synthetic piperidine derivative and is used in treating conditions of diarrhea occurring due to gastroenteritis.
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Imodium is used for controlling diarrhea symptoms rising due to gastroenteritis problems or other related issues like IBS. Imodium functions by slowing down the working of enzymes.
Usage
Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
You may choose to take Imodium with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one.
Please drink a full glass of water with Imodium.
It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.
Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.
Missed Dose
Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.
Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.
Storage
Store Imodium at room temperature (read medicine label if unsure). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.
Overdose
An overdose of Imodium may have adverse effects like drowsiness, constipation, nausea and lethargy that require immediate medical attention. Contact the nearest emergency poison control center immediately if you notice any side effects.
Warning/Precautions
Doctors advise against using Imodium if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like you have stomach pain without diarrhea; you have constipation, stomach bloating, or bloody stools; the patient is a child younger than 2 years (24 months) old.
Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.
In any case you should not take more than the prescribed dosage of Imodium for a longer time frame than 48 hours. In case you develop fever, stomach bloating or swelling, or blood in your stools you should contact your health provider immediately.
Imodium simply treats the symptoms of diarrhea and does not cure the condition. You should consult your health care provider in case if you have any queries related to your condition.
Imodium may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using Imodium. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Imodium to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.
If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Imodium as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.