Imodium (loperamide) is generally well-tolerated but can cause several side effects. Some side effects are more common and mild, while others are rare but potentially serious.[1]
Common side effects may include:
- Constipation[1]
- Drowsiness or tiredness[1]
- Dizziness[1]
- Nausea[1]
- Abdominal cramps or pain[1]
- Flatulence (gas)[2]
- Dry mouth[3]
- Headache[2]
- Indigestion[5]
- Vomiting[5]
Serious or rare side effects may require immediate medical attention. These include:
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat; difficulty breathing; skin rash or hives)[1]
- Rapid, irregular, or pounding heartbeat (including heart rhythm changes like QT prolongation and torsade de pointes)[1]
- Severe constipation or abdominal pain and bloating[2]
- Blood in stool or black stool[1]
- Loss of appetite[2]
- Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin[7]
- Chest pain or discomfort[7]
- Fainting or severe dizziness[4]
- Difficulty urinating or decrease in urine volume[2]
- Unusual tiredness or weakness[7]
- Red or irritated eyes, mouth ulcers, sore throat, or skin lesions[7]
Some people may also feel drowsy after taking Imodium, so activities like driving or operating machinery should be avoided until you know how the medication affects you.[3]
Allergic reactions, though rare, are considered a medical emergency. Signs include swelling, difficulty breathing, rash, or losing consciousness. If you notice these symptoms, seek urgent medical attention.[4]
References
- [1] Loperamide (Imodium AD) – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [2] Imodium Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term – Drugs.com
- [3] How IMODIUM® (Loperamide) Works: Dosage, Side Effects, and …
- [4] Side effects of loperamide – NHS
- [5] Imodium: Side effects and how to manage them – Medical News Today
- [7] Loperamide (oral route) – Side effects & dosage – Mayo Clinic
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