Imodium

Capsule
USUALLY SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Imodium is a capsule that contains Loperamide 2 mg. Loperamide is a anti-diarrhoea: slows down loose motions.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Loperamide2 mg

What it is used for

Slows down loose motions.

How it works

It slows the movement of the gut so more water is absorbed, making stools firmer and less frequent. It acts in the gut and does not reach the brain at normal doses.

How to take it

Adults: 4 mg at first, then 2 mg after each loose stool, maximum 16 mg a day. Drink plenty of fluids or ORS. Not for children under 12 unless a doctor advises.

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Stomach cramps
  • Wind
  • Dizziness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Blood in the stool or high fever (do not use
  • See a doctor)
  • Swollen tummy
  • Diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days
  • Fainting or palpitations (very high doses)

Be careful

Do not use with blood in stools or high fever; replace fluids with ORS.

Other medicines and interactions

Ritonavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole and quinidine can raise its level. Do not exceed the dose.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Short use is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding if needed, but ORS comes first.

Same composition, other brands (1)

Eldoper

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching brands.

Common questions

What is Imodium?

Imodium is a capsule containing Loperamide 2 mg.

What is Imodium used for?

Slows down loose motions.

How should I take Imodium?

Adults: 4 mg at first, then 2 mg after each loose stool, maximum 16 mg a day. Drink plenty of fluids or ORS. Not for children under 12 unless a doctor advises. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Imodium?

Common side effects include: Constipation, stomach cramps, wind, dizziness. Get medical help straight away for: Blood in the stool or high fever (do not use, see a doctor), swollen tummy, diarrhoea lasting more than 2 days, fainting or palpitations (very high doses).

Does Imodium need a prescription?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Can I take Imodium in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Short use is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding if needed, but ORS comes first.

What are the substitutes for Imodium?

Brands with the same composition: Eldoper. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.