Indications for use of Lomotil to treat diarrhea

Lomotil is a medicine available in the form of tablets and syrup, and is used as an antidiarrheal thanks to its two main components: atropine and diphenoxylate. This medicine improves food absorption and reduces stomach movement, making it effective in treating cases of acute diarrhea in adults and children. In this article from Dalili Medical, we will review the most important information related to Lomotil, including its composition, available pharmaceutical forms, dosage and method of use, side effects, drug interactions, and its price.

**What is Lomotil?**

Lomotil is a medicine used to treat diarrhea, as it helps relieve symptoms associated with it such as stomach pain, cramps, and watery diarrhea. Lomotil can be taken with or without food, according to the dosage and duration determined by the doctor. Doses depend on the patient's health condition and response to treatment. Lomotil is available as a trade name and also as a generic medicine, as the generic version consists of diphenoxylate and atropine, and is also available as a liquid solution that can be taken orally.

Lomotil contains two active ingredients, diphenoxylate and atropine, neither of which is available as a generic drug.

**What is Lomotil used for?**

Lomotil is primarily used to treat diarrhea, as it helps reduce the number and frequency of bowel movements by slowing them down. Diphenoxylate works similarly to opioid painkillers, but focuses on slowing down the movement of the intestines. Atropine, on the other hand, belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics, which help reduce fluid secretion in the body and slow down the movement of the intestines. It should be noted that this medication cannot be used to treat diarrhea caused by some types of infections.

**When should Lomotil be avoided?**

Lomotil should not be used in some cases. If you have a history of drug abuse or are allergic to diphenoxylate, atropine, or any other ingredients in Lomotil, it is important not to take this medication. It is also advised not to use it for patients who suffer from diarrhea caused by bacterial infections or who suffer from liver disease, as this can worsen their condition.

**Why is Lomotil a controlled substance?**

Lomotil is a Schedule V controlled substance because it contains limited amounts of narcotics that are used to relieve pain. Despite its medical use, there is a potential for abuse if taken in higher than recommended doses. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication.

**Is Lomotil a Narcotic?**

According to federal regulations, Lomotil is a Schedule V controlled substance. One of its active ingredients, diphenoxylate hydrochloride, is a Schedule II controlled substance, making it chemically related to the narcotic pain reliever meperidine. However, because Lomotil is a compounded drug, the presence of atropine reduces the risk of abuse.

**Why is the diarrhea medication Lomotil a controlled drug?**

Lomotil is not a narcotic drug, but it is a Schedule V controlled drug according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. This means that there is a potential for misuse when using this medicine.

**Are Lomotil and Imodium the same thing?**

Lomotil contains two ingredients (diphenoxylate and atropine), while Imodium contains (loperamide hydrochloride), both of which are used as anti-diarrheal medications. Lomotil also contains anticholinergics.

**Why is diphenoxylate combined with atropine?**

In Lomotil syrup, diphenoxylate is combined with a small amount of atropine in order to reduce the risk of overdose, as anticholinergics can cause unwanted side effects when taken in high doses. In addition, the anticholinergic properties of atropine contribute to enhancing the anti-diarrheal effect of the medicine.

**What to do if you miss a dose?**

Take Lomotil as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

**Medicines that interact with Lomotil**

Using Lomotil with other medications that cause drowsiness can increase this effect. It is best to consult your doctor before using the following medications:

- Sleeping pills

- Muscle relaxants

- Cold or allergy medicines

- Medicines for anxiety, depression, or seizures

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, as some may affect Lomotil, especially:

- Medicines for Parkinson's disease

- Medicines for excess stomach acid

- Urinary tract medicines

- Methylene blue injection

- Aspirin

- Cymbalta (duloxetine)

- Gabapentin

- Furosemide

- Levothyroxine

- Lisinopril

- Lyrica (pregabalin)

- Metformin

- Norco (acetaminophen/hydrocodone)

- Omeprazole

- Potassium chloride

- Prednisone

- Synthroid (levothyroxine)

- Tramadol

- Trazodone

- Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)

- Tylenol (acetaminophen)

- Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)

- Xanax (alprazolam)

- Zofran (ondansetron)

Please note that this list is not comprehensive, as other drugs may interact with Lomotil anti-diarrhea medication, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal products not listed.

**How ​​long does Lomotil take to stop diarrhea?**

Your symptoms will likely improve within 48 hours of taking Lomotil, which means you should notice changes in the consistency (firmer) and frequency (less frequent) of your stools. If your symptoms do not improve after taking Lomotil for 10 days (for adults) and 48 hours (for children), it is advisable to contact your doctor.

**Is Lomotil an opioid?**

Lomotil is an anti-diarrheal medication made up of diphenoxylate and atropine. Although Lomotil is not an opioid itself, one of its ingredients is

Its active ingredient, diphenoxylate, is an opioid. Therefore, Lomotil is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance and has some potential for abuse in the event of an overdose.

**How ​​long does Lomotil take to work?**

If you follow your doctor’s instructions, it may take up to 48 hours to relieve your diarrhea symptoms, including hard stools and reduced visits to the toilet. However, if your symptoms do not improve within 10 days for adults and 48 hours for children, it is best to consult your doctor.

**Is it safe to take Lomotil daily?**

You should always take your medication exactly as your doctor has instructed you. For Lomotil, your doctor will likely recommend taking two tablets four times a day. Make sure not to exceed the recommended dose, which is eight tablets containing 20 mg of diphenoxylate daily, as an overdose can be dangerous.

**Are Lomotil and Imodium the same thing?**

Although Lomotil (which contains atropine and diphenoxylate) and Imodium (which contains loperamide hydrochloride) are both antidiarrheal medications, they differ in composition. One major difference is that Imodium is available as an over-the-counter medication, while Lomotil is a prescription medication because it is a Schedule V controlled substance.

**Can Lomotil cause constipation?**

High doses of atropine, which is one of the ingredients in Lomotil, can cause constipation. However, the amount of atropine you get when taking prescribed doses of Lomotil is not high, making constipation less likely. If you experience constipation after taking Lomotil, it is best to consult your doctor.

**Is Lomotil an anticholinergic drug?**

Lomotil is a combination of two substances: diphenoxylate and atropine. Diphenoxylate is an opioid, while atropine is an anticholinergic drug. Due to the anticholinergic properties of atropine, it helps reduce fluid secretion in the body and slows down bowel movements during diarrhea.

**What happens if I overdose on Lomotil?**

An overdose of Lomotil can lead to serious, life-threatening complications, such as difficulty breathing, permanent brain damage, and even death. Early symptoms of an overdose include blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, slurred speech, slow breathing, and seizures. In case of an overdose, immediate medical help should be sought, as the consequences can be fatal.

**Lomotil dosage for adults:**

- **Tablet dosage:** Take two tablets daily, every 6 hours.

- **The usual dosage for the syrup:** is 5 ml every 6 hours.

- The medicine is used until the diarrhea stops, after which the dosage can be reduced according to the patient's needs.

- In severe cases, the initial dosage is 2 tablets or 4 spoons of the syrup.

**Lomotil Dosage for Children:**

- The dose and duration of treatment determined by the doctor must be adhered to.

- The usual dose is 0.25 mg per kg of the child's weight per day, divided into separate doses.

- If the dose is forgotten, it can be taken as soon as it is remembered, but it should not be compensated for with an extra dose.

- **For children from 3 years old:** The dose is one tablet or a spoonful of syrup (5 ml) twice a day.

- **For children from 8 years old:** The dose is one tablet or a spoonful of syrup (5 ml) three times a day.

- **For children over 12 years old:** The dose is one tablet or a spoonful of syrup (5 ml) four times a day.

- **For children over 16 years old:** The dose is two tablets or two spoonfuls of syrup (5 ml) three times a day.

**Contraindications for the use of Lomotil**

This medicine is prohibited for people who suffer from hypersensitivity to its components.

Caution should be exercised when used by patients with liver disease.

It is not recommended for use by those with intestinal obstruction.

People with ulcers in the digestive system should avoid taking this medicine.

It is not preferable to give it to young children except under medical supervision.

It is necessary to inform the doctor if you are taking medications to treat tumors or medications for the heart or for blood clotting before using this drug.

**Side effects of Lomotil**

Using this medicine may cause some health problems that vary from one person to another, including:

- Nausea and vomiting.

- Feeling sleepy.

- Headache and dizziness.

- Constant need to urinate.

- Cramps when taking the dose.

- Dry mouth and throat.

- Stomach pain.

- Loss of appetite.

- Stomach disorders.

- Headache resulting from lack of fluids in the body.

- Increased heart rate.

**Lomotil for pregnant women**

It is not recommended to use this medicine during pregnancy, as it may pose a risk to the health of the fetus. Part of the active ingredient can also pass to the infant through breast milk, affecting his health, so the medicine should only be used under medical supervision.

**How ​​to take Lomotil safely?**

When taking Lomotil, it is important to follow the safety instructions to avoid any complications.

- **Adhere to the prescribed dose:** Take Lomotil exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and do not exceed the recommended dose, as this may lead to serious complications such as overdose.

- **Monitor your body's response:** Pay attention to how your body responds to Lomotil. If you notice any side effects or symptoms do not improve, you should contact your healthcare provider.

- **Be sure to drink fluids:** Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it is essential to drink enough fluids while taking Lomotil. Water, clear broth, and electrolyte solutions help replace lost fluids and minerals.

- **Be aware of drug interactions:** Lomotil may interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of the medications. Therefore, you should inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements.

- **Avoid

Alcohol:** Consuming alcohol while using Lomotil may increase drowsiness and dizziness. It is best to avoid alcohol until the end of treatment with the drug.

**Fast and effective treatment for diarrhea**

Some herbs have anti-diarrheal properties, which may help relieve symptoms. However, it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking any of these herbs to avoid side effects and drug interactions.

**Chamomile**: Chamomile is a well-known herb for treating many health problems. Drinking chamomile tea or taking its capsules can help relieve diarrhea symptoms, reduce gastrointestinal inflammation, and relieve cramps and abdominal pain.

**Raspberry leaves**: Raspberry leaf tea, whether black, blue, or red, helps reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and intestinal secretions, which helps relieve diarrhea. This is due to the tannin content of raspberry leaves.

**Wild mallow**: The flowers and leaves of wild mallow are rich in medicinal substances, and help reduce diarrhea thanks to their laxative properties and tannin content. Extracts of this herb can also be used to treat infections, coughs, colds, sore throats, stomach ulcers, and constipation.

**Mint**: Mint drink is considered a useful medicinal drink, as mint oil is used to relieve abdominal cramps and relax the intestines, which helps regulate the digestive system and relieve diarrhea.

**Cress**: Taking extracts of the garden cress herb helps treat abdominal disorders resulting from diarrhea and dysentery, as studies have shown that it has anti-diarrheal effects by activating potassium channels and inhibiting some enzymes in the intestines.

**Basil**: Basil is also a useful herb in treating diarrhea, thanks to its content of substances such as saponins and tannins that help reduce symptoms.

**Water**: Water is one of the best options to replace fluids lost during diarrhea, so it is recommended to drink sufficient amounts of it.

**Apple juice**: It is preferable to drink apple juice instead of whole apples, as apple peel contains insoluble fibers that may increase digestive upset. Apple juice is easy to digest and contains important nutrients such as pectin and potassium, which helps maintain fluid balance in the body.

Pineapple juice is characterized by its high water and fluid content that is beneficial for gut health, and it also contains the enzyme bromelain, which contributes to improving and regulating bowel movement and functions. Therefore, pineapple juice is considered one of the best drinks that help treat diarrhea.

As for lemon juice, it is rich in antioxidants and some other chemical compounds that contribute to fighting bacterial and viral infections, which may be causes of diarrhea.