provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Loperamide Coupon - Loperamide 2mg capsule

loperamide

Generic Imodium A-D
Used for Diarrhea
Used for Diarrhea

Loperamide (Imodium A-D) is an antidiarrheal medication. It's available over-the-counter to treat diarrhea in kids and adults, including travelers' diarrhea. Loperamide is also available by prescription to treat diarrhea caused by certain gut-related conditions, like Crohn’s disease. Loperamide comes in tablets, capsules, and an oral liquid. It's taken by mouth, typically after each loose stool until diarrhea is under control. Some side effects of loperamide (Imodium A-D) include dizziness, drowsiness, and constipation.

Last reviewed on May 6, 2024
basics-icon

What is Loperamide (Imodium A-D)?

What is Loperamide (Imodium A-D) used for?

  • Controlling symptoms of diarrhea - OTC and prescription

  • Controlling diarrhea related to chronic gut-related conditions - prescription only

  • Lowering the amount of discharge from an ileostomy - prescription only

How Loperamide (Imodium A-D) works

Loperamide (Imodium A-D) is an antidiarrheal medication. It works on the muscles of your intestines (gut) to slow down bowel movements. The medication also lowers the amount of fluid that enters your gut. This allows for a longer period of time between bowel movements and time to make formed stools.

Are you looking for information on Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief (loperamide / simethicone) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsImodium A-D
Drug ClassAntidiarrheal
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter

More on Loperamide (Imodium A-D) essentials

coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$27.35(save 79.12%)
GoodRx discount
$5.71
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Loperamide (Imodium A-D)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Tiredness
  • Constipation

Other Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramps

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Stomach swelling (bloating)
  • Severe allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Bloating

constipation

loss of appetite

nausea

stomach pain

vomiting

Incidence not known

Blistering, peeling, loosening of skin

chest pain or discomfort

chills

cough

decrease in urine volume

decrease in frequency of urination

difficulty in passing urine

diarrhea

fainting

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

hives or welts, itching, rash

irregular or slow heartbeat

joint or muscle pain

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, sex organs

no blood pressure or pulse

painful urination

palpitations

red irritated eyes

redness of the skin

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

sore throat

stopping of heart

unconsciousness

unusual tiredness or weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare

Acid or sour stomach

belching

dizziness

drowsiness

dryness of mouth

excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels

full feeling

heartburn

indigestion

passing gas

stomach upset

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Loperamide (Imodium A-D)

thumbs-up

Pros

Taken by mouth

Available OTC at your local pharmacy

Available as a liquid product for people who have trouble swallowing pills

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause dizziness and drowsiness

Only treats symptoms of diarrhea, not the condition that's causing the diarrhea in the first place

Can't use in children younger than 2 years old

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Loperamide (Imodium A-D)

pharmacist
  • Before taking loperamide (Imodium A-D), share all of the medications you're taking or planning to take with your pharmacist or another healthcare professional. They can make sure your medications are safe to take together.

    • Don't use loperamide (Imodium A-D) if you have bloody or black stools. Ask your primary care provider before taking it if you have a fever or mucus in your stool.

      • If you have a history of liver problems or heart rhythm problems, loperamide (Imodium A-D) might not be the best option for you. Talk with your primary care provider about other options for treating your diarrhea symptoms.

        • Ask your healthcare team to see if any of your current medications interact with loperamide (Imodium A-D). You shouldn't take loperamide (Imodium A-D) with any medications that can affect heart rhythm, such as certain antipsychotics, because doing so can raise the risk of serious heart rhythm problems.

          • Follow the directions on the package, and take loperamide (Imodium A-D) after loose stools. Keep a tally of how many tablets or capsules or how much of the liquid you've taken each day. This makes sure you don't go over the maximum amount in a 24-hour period.

            • For the oral liquid: Keep the oral liquid bottle at room temperature. Make sure you shake it well before using. Use the dosing cup that comes with the bottle to measure your dose. Don't use kitchen or measuring spoons since these might not be accurate.

              • Loperamide (Imodium A-D) can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or tiredness. Don't drive or do anything that requires you to focus until you know how the medication affects you.

                • Stop using loperamide (Imodium A-D) and call your primary care provider if your diarrhea lasts more than 2 days, your symptoms get worse after using this medication, or you notice your stomach is swelling or bulging.

                  • Keep loperamide (Imodium A-D) out of reach of children. If you or a loved one accidentally takes too much loperamide (Imodium A-D), get medical help or call a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Loperamide (Imodium A-D)

                    How long does loperamide (Imodium A-D) take to work?
                    You might notice an improvement in diarrhea symptoms about an hour after your dose of loperamide (Imodium A-D). But if you don't, you can take a dose (up to the maximum recommended daily dose) after each loose stool until your symptoms get better. If you're taking over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium A-D), contact your primary care provider if your symptoms become worse after taking the medication or if the diarrhea lasts for more than 2 days. These are signs that you might need more medical attention.
                    How long does loperamide (Imodium A-D) last?
                    How long the effects of loperamide (Imodium A-D) last might differ from person to person. Some people might notice an improvement in their symptoms after a couple of doses. But others might need to take loperamide (Imodium A-D) for a longer period of time. If you're taking over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium A-D), you should get medical help if you continue to have diarrhea for more than 2 days or if your symptoms worsens. A healthcare provider can check to see if you need more medical attention.
                    What should I not take with loperamide (Imodium A-D)?
                    Loperamide (Imodium A-D) can interact with some medications, including certain antidepressants and heartburn medications. Make sure to go over a list of your current medications with a healthcare professional before taking loperamide (Imodium A-D). Additionally, you should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice. Grapefruit products can raise your risk of side effects from loperamide (Imodium A-D).
                    How often can you take loperamide (Imodium A-D)?
                    In general, you can take loperamide (Imodium A-D) after each loose stool you have up to the maximum daily dose. It's important to follow the directions on the label or the way your prescriber instructed you to take loperamide (Imodium A-D). This is because taking too much could lead to serious side effects. The FDA made some changes to OTC packaging to make sure people don't take too much. Ask your pharmacist if you have other questions about how often you can take loperamide (Imodium A-D).
                    Can you take loperamide (Imodium A-D) while pregnant?
                    There isn't enough information to know if loperamide (Imodium A-D) is safe to take during pregnancy. Results from animal studies suggest loperamide (Imodium A-D) won't cause harm to unborn babies, but results form human studies have been mixed. So your care team might only recommend loperamide (Imodium A-D) during pregnancy if the benefits of this medication is greater than the risks of harm. If you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, speak to your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) about safe options to manage symptoms of diarrhea.
                    When to take loperamide (Imodium A-D)?
                    If you're taking over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium A-D), you can take a dose after each loose stool, up to the maximum daily dose. But if you're taking loperamide (Imodium A-D) for a chronic gut-related condition, a healthcare professional might instruct you to take this medication different. Talk to your healthcare team if you're not sure when or how to take loperamide (Imodium A-D).
                    What's the difference between Lomotil and loperamide (Imodium A-D)?
                    Lomotil (diphenoxylate / atropine) and loperamide (Imodium A-D) are both antidiarrheal medications, but they have a few differences. Lomotil (diphenoxylate / atropine) is only available with a prescription and is a controlled substance, whereas loperamide (Imodium A-D) is available both over the counter and with a prescription. Lomotil contains two ingredients: diphenoxylate, an opioid which works to slow down the gut similar to loperamide (Imodium A-D), and atropine to discourage misusing the medication. Discuss the best treatment option to manage your diarrhea with your healthcare team.
                    Can kids take loperamide (Imodium A-D)?
                    Ask your child's pediatrician whether it's appropriate for your child to take loperamide (Imodium A-D). If the diarrhea is caused by food or a virus, the symptoms should improve after a couple of days without medication. Your child's care team might ask you to keep an eye on the symptoms, and help your child stay hydrated and stick to a more bland diet during this time. But if needed, their care team might recommend loperamide (Imodium A-D) for a short period of time. Keep in mind the OTC loperamide (Imodium A-D) should only be taken by children ages 6 years and older; the prescription-strength loperamide might be prescribed for children ages 2 years and older, under the guidance of their healthcare provider. Ask your child's healthcare team if you've more questions about whether your child needs loperamide (Imodium A-D).
                    GoodRxEducationalIcon

                    How to save using GoodRx

                    Compare Prices
                    1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                    Select your free coupon
                    2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                    Show coupon to your pharmacist
                    3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                    Get free couponLearn more
                    warings-icon

                    What are the risks and warnings for Loperamide (Imodium A-D)?

                    Loperamide (Imodium A-D) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Risk of serious heart rhythm problems

                    • Risk factors: Young children | Older adults | Taking higher than recommended doses per day | History of heart rhythm problems | Taking other medications that affect heart rhythm | Misuse of loperamide (Imodium A-D)

                      There have been cases of serious, sometimes life-threatening heart problems when people have taken more than the maximum daily dose of loperamide (Imodium A-D). Your risk for heart problems might be higher if you're taking other medications that can affect your heart rhythm. Loperamide (Imodium A-D) should always be used as directed and should never be used in children younger than 2 years old.

                      risk-warning

                      Stomach problems

                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D) slows down movement in your gut, which can sometimes lead to a buildup of gas and liquids. Stop taking this medication and contact your primary care provider if you become constipated or notice bloating or swelling in your stomach area.

                      risk-warning

                      Severe allergic reaction

                      In some rare cases, some people taking loperamide (Imodium A-D) have experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction. Get medical help right away if you notice swelling in your face, tongue, lips, or throat, or if you have trouble breathing or a rash.

                      dosage

                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 30 capsules of 2mg of Loperamide (Imodium A-D) is $5.71 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 79.12% off the average retail price of $27.35.
                      capsule
                      Capsule
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      2mg30 capsules$5.71$0.19

                      Typical dosing for Loperamide (Imodium A-D)

                      The dosing of loperamide differs depending on whether you're taking the over-the-counter (OTC) medication or the prescription medication.

                      OTC dosing:

                      • Adults and children ages 12 years and older: The typical dose is 4 mg by mouth after the first loose stool. After that, take 2 mg after each loose stool you have. Don't take more than 8 mg in 24 hours.

                      • Children ages 9 to 11 years, or children who weigh 60 lbs to 95 lbs: The typical dose is 2 mg by mouth after the first loose stool. After that, give 1 mg after each loose stool your child has. Don't give more than 6 mg in 24 hours.

                      • Children ages 6 to 8 years, or children who weigh 48 lbs to 59 lbs: The typical dose is 2 mg by mouth after the first loose stool. After that, give 1 mg after each loose stool your child has. Don't give more than 4 mg in 24 hours.

                      • Children 5 years and younger, or children who weigh less than 48 lbs: Ask your child's pediatrician to see what other options are available to treat your child's diarrhea.

                      Prescription dosing:

                      • Adults and children 13 years and older: The typical dose is 4 mg by mouth after the first loose stool. After that, take 2 mg after each loose stool you have. Don't take more than 16 mg in 24 hours. For adults with long-term diarrhea only, your healthcare professional might adjust your dose depending on how well the medication improves your symptoms.

                      • Children 12 years and younger: Your child's pediatrician will determine the dose based on your child's age, body weight, and symptoms. Follow their instructions carefully.

                      More on Loperamide (Imodium A-D) dosage forms

                      interactions

                      Interactions between Loperamide (Imodium A-D) and other drugs

                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Loperamide (Imodium A-D). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      • Capmatinib
                      • Lasmiditan
                      • Saquinavir
                      • Simeprevir
                      • Venetoclax

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      drug-cost

                      How much does Loperamide (Imodium A-D) cost?

                      To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                      contraindications-icon

                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D) contraindications

                      Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Loperamide (Imodium A-D) will not be safe for you to take.
                      • Children younger than 2 years old

                      • Stomach pain without diarrhea

                      • Blood in the stools and high fever

                      • Active ulcerative colitis (UC)

                      • Certain bacterial infections in the gut or colon

                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Loperamide (Imodium A-D)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Loperamide (Imodium A-D). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D)
                      Used for:
                      • Controlling symptoms of diarrhea - OTC and prescription

                      • Controlling diarrhea related to chronic gut-related conditions - prescription only

                      • Lowering the amount of discharge from an ileostomy - prescription only

                      $5.71 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Used for:
                      $7.26 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      latest news

                      What is the latest news about Loperamide (Imodium A-D)?

                      images

                      Loperamide (Imodium A-D) images

                      Brown Teva 0311 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Teva 0311".Brown Teva 0311 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown Mylan 2100 Mylan 2100 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Mylan 2100 Mylan 2100".Brown Mylan 2100 Mylan 2100 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown Logo 605 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Logo 605".Brown Logo 605 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown Logo 605 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Logo 605".Brown Logo 605 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown 2 Lop - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "2 Lop".Brown 2 Lop - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown 2 Lop - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "2 Lop".Brown 2 Lop - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown C781 C781 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "C781 C781".Brown C781 C781 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown C781 C781 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "C781 C781".Brown C781 C781 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      White Lm1 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is White Capsule Imprinted With "Lm1".White Lm1 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Blue Lp2 - Foster & Thrive Anti-Diarrheal 2mg Softgel
                      This medicine is Blue Capsule Imprinted With "Lp2".Blue Lp2 - Foster & Thrive Anti-Diarrheal 2mg Softgel
                      Beige 1701 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Beige Capsule Imprinted With "1701".Beige 1701 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Beige 1701 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Beige Capsule Imprinted With "1701".Beige 1701 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown Logo A30 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Logo A30".Brown Logo A30 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      Brown Logo A30 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule
                      This medicine is Brown Capsule Imprinted With "Logo A30".Brown Logo A30 - Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg Capsule

                      Get savings updates for Loperamide (Imodium A-D)

                      Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Loperamide (Imodium A-D) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                      By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      Amerisource Bergen (2023). Loperamide hydrochloride [package insert].

                      Baker, D. E. (2007). Loperamide: a pharmacological review. Reviews in Gastroenterological Disorders.

                      Bionpharma Inc. (2023). LOPERAMIDE HYDROCHLORIDE capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      View All References (5)

                      Black, R. A., et al. (2003). Over-the-Counter Medications in Pregnancy. American Family Physician.

                      MedlinePlus. (2022). Ileostomy.

                      Regnard, C., et al. (2011). Loperamide. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.

                      U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). FDA limits packaging for anti-diarrhea medicine loperamide (Imodium) to encourage safe use.

                      Wal-mart Stores Inc. (2022). Equate loperamide hydrochloride - loperamide hcl suspension.

                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                      Was this page helpful?

                      Browse medications

                      View All

                      Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.