Loperamide Hydrochloride

Question 1

Indications of Loperamide?

Answer 1

Treatment of diarrhoea:
Symptomatic
Chronic

Question 2

Doses of Loperamide?

Answer 2

4-7 years: 1mg 3-4 times a day for up to 3 days.
8-11 years: 2mg 4 times a day for up to 5 days.
12-17 years: 4mg initially, followed by 2mg for up to 5 days

Chronic:
1-11 months: 100-200micrograms/kg twice daily 30 minutes before feed
1-11 years: 100-200micrigrams/kg 3-4 times a day
12-17 years: 2-4mg 2-4 times a day; maximum 16mg per day

Question 3

Contraindications of Loperamide?

Answer 3

Acute ulcerative colitis, antibiotic associated colitis, conditions with potential of abdominal distension, conditions where inhibition of peristalsis should be avoided, not recommended for children under 12.

Question 4

Side effects of Loperamide?

Answer 4

Dizziness, flatulent, headache, nausea, abdominal pain (UC), drowsiness, dry mouth, dyspepsia, rash, vomiting

Question 5

Route of Loperamide?

Answer 5

ORAL

Question 6

Nursing implications of Loperamide?

Answer 6

Fluid balance - monitor effectiveness
Discontinue after 48 hours if no improvement
Notify doctor if ulcerative colitis patient develops abdominal distension