Imodium Complete (Loperamide Hydrochloride/Simethicone) is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve the symptoms of diarrhea and gas, such as bloating, pressure, and cramps. Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools occurring three or more times a day or more frequently than usual. The symptoms of diarrhea may be mild and temporary, or they could be symptoms of a more serious underlying condition. The active ingredients in Imodium Complete are Loperamide Hydrochloride, and Simethicone. Loperamide Hydrochloride belongs to a class of drugs called opioid agonists. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the gut wall, allowing water to be absorbed from the stool, making it firmer and reducing the frequency of bowel movements. Simethicone belongs to a class of drugs called antiflatulents. It works by decreasing the surface tension of gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines. This causes the smaller gas bubbles to join together into larger bubbles, which are more easily passed from the body through belching or flatulence.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Imodium Complete from Canada, manufactured by Johnson & Johnson in the strength of 2 mg/125 mg caplets. The generic Loperamide Hydrochloride/Simethicone is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Imodium Complete. The most common side effects of Imodium Complete may include the following:
• Abdominal cramps;
• Constipation;
• Dizziness;
• Drowsiness;
• Gas;
• Nausea
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Blood in stool;
• Difficulty passing urine;
• Fainting;
• Severe constipation;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
These are not all of Imodium Complete's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Imodium Complete if you are allergic to Loperamide Hydrochloride, Simethicone, or any ingredient in Imodium Complete. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a swollen abdomen;
• Have bloody or tarry stools;
• Have dysentery;
• Have HIV/AIDS;
• Have ileus;
• Have liver problems;
• Have severe constipation;
• Have severe diarrhea
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between the Imodium Complete and other medicines, such as clarithromycin, itraconazole, citalopram, amiodarone, haloperidol, ritonavir, cimetidine, quinidine, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine in pregnancy with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Loperamide Hydrochloride passes into breast milk in small amounts. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Imodium Complete comes as a caplet. Swallow this medicine whole with a full glass of water. For adults and children over 12 years, take 2 caplets after the first loose stool and then one caplet after each subsequent loose stool. Do not take more than 4 caplets in 24 hours. Do not take this drug for more than 2 days unless directed by your doctor. If your diarrhea does not stop after 2 days or if you develop a fever, consult your doctor. This medicine can make you tired and dizzy. Use caution when driving or operating machinery. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration due to diarrhea. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.