Loperamide (anti-diarrhoeals) Flashcards
1
Q
What’s the mechanism of action of loperamide?
A
Opioid receptor AGONIST
Decreases the tone of smooth muscle cells in intestinal wall –> increases time material stays in intestine –> allows more water to be absorbed
2
Q
What condition(s) is loperamide indicated in?
A
IBS, short-bowel syndrome, acute non-specific diarrhoea
3
Q
What are the contraindications of loperamide?
A
Blood/mucus in stool
Fevers
Acute exacerbations of ulcerative colitis
4
Q
What drugs should you avoid when taking loperamide?
A
Anti-depressants and opioid analgesics
5
Q
What are the side effects of loperamide?
A
GI disorders, headache, nausea
