Loperamide: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Loperamide is an anti-diarrhoea medicine. It is used for acute diarrhoea, travellers' diarrhoea and diarrhoea in irritable bowel syndrome. In Pakistan it is available as capsules and tablets, made by 12 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Loperamide works
Loperamide acts on receptors in the wall of the gut to slow the muscular contractions that push its contents along. Food and fluid stay in the bowel for longer, so more water is absorbed back into the body and stools become firmer and less frequent.
What is Loperamide used for?
- Acute diarrhoea
- Travellers' diarrhoea
- Diarrhoea in irritable bowel syndrome
Loperamide is used for the short-term relief of sudden (acute) diarrhoea in adults and children aged 12 and over, including travellers' diarrhoea. It is also used for recurring diarrhoea linked to irritable bowel syndrome once a doctor has confirmed the diagnosis. It controls the symptom but does not treat the cause, so replacing lost fluids remains important.
Side effects of Loperamide
Side effects of Loperamide are usually mild and may include:
- Constipation
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating or wind
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Stop taking it and see a doctor if you have blood or mucus in your stools, a high temperature, a swollen or painful abdomen, or diarrhoea lasting more than 48 hours. Fainting or a fast or irregular heartbeat needs urgent help.
Precautions and warnings
- Drink plenty of fluids, and use oral rehydration solution if needed, to replace what is lost through diarrhoea.
- Do not use it if you have bloody diarrhoea, a high fever, a flare-up of ulcerative colitis, or diarrhoea after taking antibiotics.
- Never take more than the recommended amount, as high doses can cause serious heart rhythm problems.
- It is not for children under 12 unless a doctor advises it, and you should ask a doctor before using it if you have liver disease.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Loperamide
What is the price of Loperamide in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Loperamide products currently in stock range from Rs 30 to Rs 493 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Lopra 2mg Capsule at Rs 30. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Loperamide are available in Pakistan?
Loperamide is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Lopra (Irza), Lomide (Pharmacare), Floramex (Zafa Pharmaceutical Labortories Ltd), Imodium (Janssen Pharmaceutical Division), Emod (Efroze Chemical Industries (PVT.) Ltd), Lopemid (FYNK Pharmaceuticals), Mide (Macquins International) and Lopamide (Medicaids), along with 4 more brands listed below.Do I need a prescription for Loperamide?
Loperamide is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.
Can Loperamide be used during pregnancy?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Are all Loperamide brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Loperamide in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Loperamide brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 14 products containing Loperamide from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
