Lomotil: Uses, Side Effects, Storage and Precautions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr P Abdul Samad, Gastroenterology
Lomotil is a medication commonly used to treat diarrhea. It helps manage symptoms like stomach pain, cramping, and loose stools. Available as tablets and liquid, Lomotil contains diphenoxylate and atropine, working together to reduce bowel movements and slow intestinal activity.
Lomotil is a combination medicine composed of diphenoxylate (an opioid-like drug) and atropine (an anticholinergic). It is primarily prescribed to control diarrhea by slowing intestinal contractions.
Lomotil helps decrease the frequency and urgency of diarrhea, easing discomfort such as cramping and pain. It is effective in reducing bowel movement by slowing intestinal motility. It is not suitable for diarrhea caused by certain infections.
Not typically used beyond diarrhea management; no widely recognized secondary uses.
Diphenoxylate acts on opioid receptors in the gut to slow intestinal muscle contractions, making stools firmer and less frequent. Atropine reduces bodily secretions and intestinal movement, also discouraging misuse by causing unpleasant effects at high doses.
Typically taken orally four times a day or as prescribed. The dosage is determined by the severity of the condition and the patient's response. For children, doses are weight-based. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully without exceeding specified amounts.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double doses to compensate for missed ones.
An overdose can cause severe symptoms affecting breathing and heart rate. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
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Get Second OpinionLomotil may cause mild discomfort, such as dizziness or dry mouth. Some individuals might experience skin irritation or mood changes. Seek advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
If you have any of these severe symptoms, immediately contact your doctor for further assistance and get medical help immediately if you experience any serious Lomotil side effects.
Before starting Lomotil, discuss your complete health history with your doctor, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions. Use caution when performing activities that require alertness, and always adhere to the prescribed doses.
It is not recommended for children under six years of age.
Avoid alcohol while taking Lomotil, as it can worsen side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. No specific food restrictions, but follow the doctor's advice.
Lomotil may interact with other central nervous system depressants, opioids, or anticholinergic drugs. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are using.
Store Lomotil tablets and liquid at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20 °C to 25 °C). Keep away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store in a secure place out of reach of children.
Improper storage may reduce drug effectiveness or cause deterioration. Exposure to heat, moisture, or light may damage the medication.
| Lomotil | Imodium |
|---|---|
| Lomotil Tablet is a medication used to treat diarrhea. It manages symptoms of diarrhea such as stomach pain, cramping, and loose stools. | Imodium Capsule is used for the treatment of diarrhea. It should not be used in patients suffering from dysentery (diarrhea with blood). |
| This medicine is used to treat diarrhoea. It helps to reduce the number and frequency of bowel movements. It works by slowing down movement of the intestines. | This medicine is used to treat sudden diarrhea (including traveller diarrhea). It works by slowing down the movement of the intestine. This reduces the number of bowel movements and makes the stool less watery. |
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Common side effects include:
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Common side effects include:
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040-68334455This medicine is used to treat diarrhoea. It helps to reduce the number and frequency of bowel movements. It works by slowing down the movement of the intestines. Diphenoxylate is similar to opioid pain relievers, but it acts mainly to slow down the intestine.
Lomotil is classified as a controlled substance of Schedule V by federal legislation. Diphenoxylate hydrochloride is chemically linked to narcotic analgesic meperidine.
Lomotil (diphenoxylate and atropine) and Imodium (loperamide hydrochloride) are antidiarrheal drugs used to treat diarrhea. Lomotil also contains an anticholinergic agent.
The initial adult dosage of 2 Lomotil tablets is four times daily (maximum total daily dose of 20 mg per day of diphenoxylate hydrochloride). Most patients will require this dose until initial diarrhea control has been achieved.
Lomotil is widely considered to be safe and effective when taken at appropriate doses. There is a potential for abuse and/or habit-forming, but this is not a concern when taken as prescribed by the doctor.
Overdose of Lomotil can cause breathing problems and can lead to death or permanent brain damage. Early overdose symptoms include weakness, blurred vision, slurred speech, hot feeling, fast heartbeat, slow breathing, fainting, seizure, or coma.
The doctor will prescribe two tablets four times a day when you start using Lomotil. Do not take more than 8 tablets (20 mg diphenoxylate) a day. Continue this until your diarrhea starts to improve (the stools get firmer), which should happen within 48 hours.
Lomotil tablet is a medication used to treat diarrhea by slowing down bowel movements, providing relief from symptoms like frequent bowel movements and cramping.
Lomotil pill is prescribed to control diarrhea symptoms such as loose stools and abdominal cramps by slowing down bowel movements.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.