Product image of Imodium (Loperamide Hydrochloride) supplied by GNH India

Imodium

Active Ingredient:
Loperamide Hydrochloride
Origin:
EU

Imodium (Loperamide Hydrochloride)

Loperamide Hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Imodium, is an antidiarrheal presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It reduces the frequency and urgency of watery stools in acute and chronic diarrhea, including travel‑related cases, and is indicated for use in adults and children over two years of age. It is available without prescription in the EU.

GNH India supplies Imodium as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, ensuring quality manufacturing, regulatory compliance and reliable global distribution.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Mcneil Healthcare (Ireland) Limited

1
Pack/s
This product is added to your enquiry list

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below and our team will get back to you shortly with pricing and further information.

A minimum order value applies. Our team will confirm the exact amount or quantity after reviewing your requirements.

Indications & Clinical Uses

  • Imodium is an antidiarrheal that acts on the gastrointestinal tract to control excess stool output in several diarrheal conditions.
  • Acute nonspecific diarrhea: decreases stool frequency and improves consistency in short‑term episodes.
  • Chronic diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease: helps manage persistent loose stools when disease activity is controlled.
  • Travelers' diarrhea: provides symptomatic relief for diarrhea acquired during travel to high‑risk regions.

How It Works

  • Loperamide Hydrochloride acts as a peripherally selective μ‑opioid receptor agonist in the myenteric plexus. By stimulating these receptors, it reduces the release of acetylcholine and other excitatory neurotransmitters, leading to decreased intestinal smooth‑muscle motility, prolonged transit time, and increased absorption of water and electrolytes, thereby firming stool consistency.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

  • Constipation: reduced bowel movements or hard stools.
  • Nausea: mild stomach upset.
  • Abdominal cramps: intermittent discomfort.
  • Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
  • Dry mouth: reduced salivation.
  • Drowsiness: mild sedation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe constipation or fecal impaction: risk of bowel obstruction.
  • Toxic megacolon: rare but life‑threatening colonic dilation.
  • Allergic reactions: rash, itching, or swelling.
  • Cardiac arrhythmia: QT prolongation especially with high doses or interacting drugs.
  • Central nervous system depression: especially when combined with other opioids.

Precautions & Warnings

Before using Imodium, consider the following safety measures.

  • Do not exceed recommended dose: follow prescriber or label instructions.
  • Avoid use in bacterial enterocolitis: may worsen infection.
  • Use with caution in hepatic impairment: reduced metabolism may increase exposure.
  • Consult healthcare provider before use in children under two years: safety not established.
  • Avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: risk of increased cardiac toxicity.
  • Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Loperamide may interact with other medicines; awareness helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): can raise loperamide levels and precipitate cardiac toxicity.
  • Co‑administration with other opioids: may cause additive central nervous system depression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • CYP2C8 inhibitors (e.g., gemfibrozil): may modestly increase plasma concentrations.
  • P‑glycoprotein inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, verapamil): can affect drug transport and raise levels.
  • Anticholinergic agents: may enhance constipation risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Imodium is used to relieve symptoms of diarrhea, including acute nonspecific diarrhea, chronic diarrhea linked to inflammatory bowel disease, and diarrhea that occurs during travel. It works by slowing intestinal movement, which helps reduce stool frequency and improve consistency.

Loperamide Hydrochloride binds to peripheral μ‑opioid receptors in the gut. This binding decreases the release of neurotransmitters that stimulate intestinal muscle contraction, slowing transit time and allowing more water to be reabsorbed, which results in firmer stools.

The appropriate dose of Imodium is determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual’s age, condition severity, and response to therapy. Patients should follow the prescriber’s instructions or the product label for dosing guidance.

Safety data for Loperamide Hydrochloride in pregnancy and lactation are limited, and the product’s pregnancy category is listed as unknown. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before using Imodium.

To order Imodium, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, and will request trade or institutional credentials. The team then replies with pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Imodium (loperamide) is a peripherally acting opioid that specifically slows gut motility, whereas other antidiarrheals such as bismuth subsalicylate work by coating the intestinal lining and reducing inflammation. Loperamide generally provides faster symptom control but requires caution with certain drug interactions and in patients with specific infections.

Imodium should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and light. Keep the product out of reach of children and do not use it after the expiration date printed on the label.

Imodium is taken orally, usually as a tablet that is swallowed whole with a glass of water. The exact administration schedule, including the number of tablets and timing, should follow the prescribing clinician’s directions or the label instructions.

Serious risks include severe constipation or fecal impaction, toxic megacolon, allergic reactions, and cardiac arrhythmias such as QT prolongation, especially when taken with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or in high doses. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or irregular heartbeats.

Imodium should be avoided in individuals with known hypersensitivity to loperamide, those with bacterial enterocolitis (e.g., Clostridioides difficile infection), acute dysentery, or ulcerative colitis flare-ups. It is also contraindicated in children under two years of age and in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors without medical supervision.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

Disclaimer

At GNH India, we aim to provide information that is expert-reviewed, accurate, and reliable. However, all content on this platform is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While efforts are made to maintain accuracy and currency, the information may contain errors, omissions, or may not reflect the latest developments. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.

All product names, brand names, trademarks and registered trademarks displayed on this website are the property of their respective owners. This website and its operator are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by any such trade mark owners unless expressly stated. Any reference to product names or trademarks is made solely for descriptive and informational purposes. No commercial relationship, sponsorship, approval, or association with any trademark owner should be inferred. Information provided herein does not constitute promotion, advertising, or an offer for sale of any medicinal product and is intended solely for general informational purposes.

All trademarks and brand names displayed on this website are used strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, specifically Sections 30 and 30(1) governing fair use. Trademark ownership has been accurately attributed under the "Manufacturer/ TM Owner" section in compliance with statutory requirements.

Ordering Process

Simple, Secure, and Seamless

Learn how our streamlined ordering process guarantees fast, compliant, and reliable access to essential medicines worldwide.

Quote request form

01

Submit Quote Request Form

Tell us what medications you need by filling out our simple form and uploading a valid document.

Price estimate review

02

We Review & Send Estimate

Our licensed pharmacists will verify your details and provide you with a detailed cost estimate.

Secure payment

03

Confirm & Make Payment

Discuss any queries, approve the estimate, and complete your payment.

Worldwide delivery

04

Get Delivered

Your medicines, safely packed and delivered to your door or nearest airport — hassle-free.

Quality You Can Trust

Our internationally recognized certifications underscore our commitment to safety, quality, and excellence.