GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Imodium

GNH USA supplies Imodium (Loperamide Hydrochloride), an opioid receptor agonist for acute, chronic and traveler's diarrhea. Request a quote for supply.

Loperamide Hydrochloride

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What is Loperamide Hydrochloride?

Loperamide Hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Imodium, is a peripheral opioid receptor agonist presented as an oral tablet for oral use. It reduces intestinal motility and fluid secretion, providing symptomatic relief for acute nonspecific diarrhea, chronic diarrhea and traveler's diarrhea in adults and children when indicated. The product is available over‑the‑counter in the European Union and is used under medical guidance.

GNH USA supplies Imodium as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, ensuring consistent quality and regulatory compliance across markets.

What is Loperamide Hydrochloride used for?

Imodium (loperamide) acts on the gastrointestinal motility pathway to manage diarrheal conditions.

Acute nonspecific diarrhea: reduces stool frequency and improves consistency in short‑term episodes. Chronic diarrhea: provides symptomatic control for ongoing diarrheal disorders such as IBS‑D. Traveler’s diarrhea: offers rapid relief for diarrhea acquired during travel.

What are the side effects of Loperamide Hydrochloride?

Common Side Effects: - Constipation: reduced bowel movements may become infrequent. - Nausea: mild stomach upset may occur. - Abdominal cramps: occasional discomfort in the abdomen. - Dizziness: transient light‑headedness reported by some users. - Dry mouth: reduced salivation. - Headache: mild tension‑type headache.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe constipation or bowel obstruction: risk of impaction requiring medical attention. - Toxic megacolon: rare but life‑threatening colonic dilation. - Allergic reactions: rash, pruritus, or angioedema. - Cardiac arrhythmias: QT prolongation in susceptible individuals. - Severe abdominal pain: may indicate obstruction. - Ileus: paralytic bowel requiring intervention.

What precautions apply to Loperamide Hydrochloride?

Imodium should be used with caution and according to label or prescriber instructions.

Do not exceed recommended dose: follow label or prescriber guidance. Avoid use in bacterial enterocolitis: may worsen infection. Use with caution in hepatic impairment: reduced drug clearance. Avoid in children under 2 years: higher risk of serious side effects. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional before use. Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and heat.

What does Loperamide Hydrochloride interact with?

Loperamide may interact with several medicines; awareness of interaction severity helps ensure safe use.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): increase loperamide plasma levels. - P‑gp inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, verapamil): raise systemic exposure. - Opioid analgesics: additive central nervous system depression.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Anticholinergic agents: may intensify constipation. - Antidiarrheal combination therapy: risk of excessive slowing of gut motility. - Diuretics: may enhance dehydration risk.

Frequently asked questions

What is Imodium used for?+
Imodium is an over‑the‑counter antidiarrheal medication whose active ingredient, loperamide hydrochloride, is indicated for the symptomatic relief of acute nonspecific diarrhea, chronic diarrheal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, and traveler’s diarrhea. It works by slowing intestinal transit, which helps reduce stool frequency and improve consistency.
How does loperamide work?+
Loperamide works by binding to peripheral μ‑opioid receptors in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. Activation of these receptors inhibits the release of acetylcholine and other excitatory neurotransmitters, decreasing peristaltic activity, prolonging intestinal transit time, and allowing greater absorption of water and electrolytes, which results in firmer stools.
What is the usual dose of Imodium?+
The dosing regimen for Imodium is determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient’s age, severity of symptoms, and clinical response. Over‑the‑counter labeling provides general guidance, but the exact amount and frequency should always follow the prescriber’s instructions or the product’s label directions.
Is Imodium safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?+
Safety data for loperamide in pregnancy and lactation are limited. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before using Imodium, as the decision will depend on the severity of diarrhea and available alternative therapies.
How do I order Imodium from GNH USA?+
To order Imodium, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnh-usa.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH USA supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, and will request verification of trade or institutional credentials. After confirmation, the sales team provides pricing, availability, shipping details (including any cold‑chain requirements) and assists with import documentation.
How does Imodium compare with the main alternative antidiarrheal drug?+
The primary alternative to loperamide is diphenoxylate combined with atropine. Both agents reduce gut motility, but diphenoxylate has a central opioid effect and is often prescribed for more severe cases, whereas loperamide acts peripherally with minimal central activity, making it suitable for OTC use. Loperamide generally has a lower risk of central opioid side effects.
How should Imodium be stored and handled?+
Imodium tablets should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in the original container to protect them from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the product out of reach of children and avoid storing it in damp or excessively hot environments, which could affect tablet integrity.
How is Imodium administered?+
Imodium is taken orally as a tablet with a glass of water. It may be taken with or without food, although some patients prefer taking it with meals to reduce the chance of nausea. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed.
What are the most serious risks associated with Imodium?+
The most serious risks include severe constipation that can progress to bowel obstruction or toxic megacolon, especially when the recommended dose is exceeded or in patients with underlying infections. Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or angioedema and cardiac arrhythmias (QT prolongation) have been reported, requiring immediate medical attention.
Who should not use Imodium?+
Imodium should be avoided in children younger than two years, patients with known hypersensitivity to loperamide, those with bacterial enterocolitis (e.g., Clostridioides difficile), acute dysentery, or ulcerative colitis with severe inflammation. Individuals with significant hepatic impairment or those taking interacting medications listed under major interactions should also consult a healthcare professional before use.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Loperamide Hydrochloride
Route
Oral Use
Manufacturer
Kenvue Austria Gmbh
Origin
EU

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