Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is loperamide. This medicine control the symptoms of diarrhea, including Traveler's Diarrhea. You may hear it called by a brand name like 'Imodium'.

Loperamide comes in different forms. For example, it may be a capsule, tablet or a liquid. Certain forms may also include medicine to relieve gas pains.

You should take this medicine exactly as directed on the package label. Also, you should drink plenty of clear fluids while you have diarrhea, to help prevent dehydration.

If you are giving this medicine to a child, you must read the label to make sure it is approved for their age and weight. If you have any questions, be sure to ask their doctor before use. If you are using the liquid form, remember to shake the bottle before using it. Also, you should use the measuring cup that comes with the bottle to measure the dose.

This medicine could cause you to feel a little tired, drowsy or dizzy. You should wait until you know how it affects you before doing activities that require you to be alert, like driving. If these or other side effects worry you, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

There are times that you should check with your doctor BEFORE using this medicine. Check first if you have a fever, mucus in the stool, a history of liver disease, or if you are taking antibiotics. Also, there are times you should STOP using this medicine and check with your doctor. Stop and check if the symptoms get worse, if the diarrhea lasts for more than 2 days, and if you get swelling or bulging in the abdomen.

For best results with loperamide, take it as directed, and drink plenty of fluids.