Quite often, people go to the doctor complaining of digestive upsets. And often, experts recommend Imodium. Indications for the use of the drug also include such a common problem as diarrhea. So what does the drug consist of, what properties does it have?
Composition and properties of the drug
This drug is available in the form of hard gelatin capsules with white powder inside or chewable tablets. The main active component of the drug is loperamide hypochloride. This substance acts on some receptors of cells of the intestinal wall. In particular, it alters the activity of adrenergic and cholinergic neurons.
When is it advisable to use Imodium? Indications for its use are diarrhea. The fact is that under the influence of the drug, the tone of the wall of the rectum and anal sphincter increases, which reduces the incidence of urge to defecate and helps to keep feces inside the intestine.
On the other hand, loperamide reduces intestinal motility, normalizes mucus secretion. Under the influence of the drug, pain and discomfort caused by smooth muscle spasm are reduced. In addition, the drug normalizes the process of water absorption and the balance of electrolytes, which reduces the likelihood of dehydration.
Imodium: indications for use
Naturally, first you need to see a doctor. If you really need such a medicine, then the specialist will prescribe Imodium. Indications for use - acute and chronic diarrhea of any origin. This drug is effective for diarrhea resulting from malnutrition, infection, medications, emotional breakdown, radiation therapy, metabolic disorders.
Patients with an ileostomy also take the medicine, as it helps to normalize the consistency of feces and reduce the number of bowel movements.
How to take Imodium correctly?
Do not use the medicine yourself. Only the doctor knows what Imodium is, indications for use, etc. Doses here are selected individually depending on the condition of the patient. However, most often, adult patients take 1-2 capsules from 1 to 6 times a day (but not more than eight per day). For adolescents and children, a single dose is lower - 1 tablet.
Contraindications and side effects
To begin with, it is worth noting that the medicine is not prescribed for patients with constipation, hypersensitivity to any component, as well as people with lactose intolerance. Contraindications are also considered acute ulcerative colitis, acute dysentery, bacterial enterocolitis, diseases accompanied by paralysis of the intestinal muscles. The drug is not prescribed for children under five years of age. During pregnancy, the medicine should be used very carefully.
As for the side effects, sometimes the medication provokes the development of a skin allergic reaction. In some cases, headaches, insomnia, dizziness, and fatigue occur. Nausea and vomiting, pain in the lower abdomen, flatulence, dry mouth, intestinal obstruction are occasionally recorded . If your health worsens, you should temporarily stop taking the capsules and seek medical advice.