Anti-diarrheal
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Loperamide is an anti-diarrhea medicine that works by slowing down the movement of your intestines, so your body has more time to absorb water and nutrients from food, making your stool firmer and reducing how often you visit the toilet.
Activates mu (μ) opioid receptors in the enteric nervous system, slowing intestinal motility and increasing fluid absorption in the colon, thereby reducing stool frequency and consistency.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For adults, take 2 tablets (4 mg) after the first loose stool, then 1 tablet (2 mg) after each additional loose stool. Do not take more than 8 tablets (16 mg) in one day. You can take it with or without food. Drink plenty of water and ORS to replace lost fluids. Stop taking it once the stool is firm again.
Loperamide is taken only when you have loose stool — you don't take it on a fixed schedule. Simply take the next dose after your next episode of loose stool. Do not double up.
Loperamide only stops the running stomach — it does not treat the cause, so if your diarrhea is from typhoid, cholera, or food poisoning, you still need to see a doctor. Always rehydrate with ORS and clean water alongside taking this drug. Do not take more than the recommended dose thinking it will work faster — overdose can cause serious heart problems.
Avoid taking with antibiotics like erythromycin or ketoconazole (antifungal), as they can increase the level of loperamide in your body and cause heart problems. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen dizziness and drowsiness. If you are taking any other medicine, tell your pharmacist before buying loperamide.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Loperamide with your other drugs?
Loperamide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor specifically tells you to take it — consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it in its original pack and far away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Loperamide?
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