What do Imodium products treat?
Imodium products are commonly used to treat diarrhea, including diarrhea that comes on suddenly (acute) and diarrhea that is long-term (chronic). The main active ingredient in most Imodium products is loperamide, which works by slowing down movement through your gut, allowing for more water to be absorbed out of the stool. This makes the poop less watery.
Imodium products may also contain simethicone to help relieve symptoms of gas and bloating.
There are Imodium products for adults and children as young as 6 years old.
What should I know before using Imodium products?
Do not use Imodium products if your poop is bloody or black. Stop using Imodium products if your symptoms get worse, you have diarrhea for more than 2 days, or you get swelling or bulging in your abdomen. These may be signs of a more serious problem.
Imodium products are taken as needed for symptoms. Check the label of the specific product you have for instructions on how much and how often you should take per day.
Taking more than the recommended dose of Imodium can lead to a dangerous change in heart rhythm. Check with your healthcare provider before using Imodium products if you have a history of abnormal heart rhythms.
Check with a healthcare provider before using any Imodium products if you have any of the following conditions.
- Fever
- Mucus in your poop
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Liver disease
- Pregnant or breast-feeding
There may be side effects, additional warnings, and interactions with other medicines that are not listed here. These may vary depending on the combination of ingredients in the specific Imodium product you are using. Always check the label before taking any Imodium product. Talk to a pharmacist or healthcare provider about your health conditions and other medicines to help determine which Imodium products are safe for you.
Which Imodium product is right for my symptoms?
Use the table below to help you find the best product to treat your symptoms.
Diarrhea
| Product | Age | Ingredients |
| Imodium A-D Softgels | Adults and children 12+ | Loperamide 2 mg |
| Imodium A-D Caplets | Adults and children 6+ | Loperamide 2 mg |
| Imodium A-D Oral Solution | Adults and children 6+ | Loperamide 1 mg/7.5 mL |
| Imodium A-D Oral Solution for Kids | Adults and children 6+ | Loperamide 1 mg/7.5 mL |
Diarrhea, Gas, and Bloating
| Product | Age | Ingredients |
| Imodium A-D Multi-Symptom Relief | Adults and children 6+ | Loperamide 2 mg Simethicone 125 mg |