Key takeaways
Lomotil (diphenoxylate/atropine) and Imodium A-D (loperamide) are both used to treat diarrhea, but they have some key differences. Lomotil is a prescription-only medication that combines an opioid (diphenoxylate) with an anticholinergic (atropine) to slow down the gut and prevent misuse. It is a controlled substance, meaning it has stricter regulations. On the other hand, Imodium A-D is available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It works by slowing down bowel movements and reducing fluid in the gut. Lomotil can cause serious side effects in young children and requires careful dosing, while Imodium A-D is not recommended for children under 6 years old and can cause heart rhythm problems if taken in high doses. Lomotil is available in both tablet and oral solution forms, whereas Imodium A-D comes in tablets, capsules, and liquid. Both medications can cause dizziness and drowsiness, but Lomotil also has the potential for opioid withdrawal symptoms if misused.
