Antimotility Drugs
Examples
Loperamide
Indications
- Acute Diarrhoea (symptomatic treatment)
- Chronic Diarrhoea
- Faecal Incontinence (unlicensed use)
Contraindications
- Active ulcerative/antibiotic associated colitis
- Abdominal Distension
- Suspicion of serious bacteria-induced diarrhoea (ie e-coli 0157, C.Difficile infections)
Cautions
Mechanism
Loperamide is an opioid receptor agonist that works on the small intestine by reducing contractions in the circular and longitudinal muscle, increasing transit time. It also enhances salt and water absorption.
Administration
Oral
Adverse Reactions
- Dizziness
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Nausea
Interactions
Effects can be enhanced by several drugs - check Stockley’s for more information
Education
Large overdoses have been reported as causing serious cardiac events, such as prolonged QT and cardiac arrests.
Naloxone can be administered in the event of an overdose of loperamide.
Reports have also been found that patients suffering from opioid withdrawal have been using loperamide in large quantities to abate withdrawal symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Metabolised by enzyme Cytochrome p450, therefore will have a reduced effect when used concurrently with medications that inhibit this enzyme
