What Does Lomotil Do?
This medication is used to treat diarrhea. It helps to decrease the number and frequency of bowel movements. It works by slowing the movement of the intestines. Diphenoxylate is similar to narcotic pain relievers, but it acts mainly to slow the gut. Atropine belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergic, which help to dry up body fluids and also slow gut movement.
How to use Lomotil
Take this medication by mouth, usually 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In children, dosage is also based on weight. If you need to continue treatment once your diarrhea is controlled, your doctor may direct you to lower your dosage. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or use it for longer than prescribed.
Side effects of Lomotil
Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, tiredness, blurred vision, dry mouth, and loss of appetite may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach/abdominal pain or swelling, severe nausea, vomiting, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, depression), restlessness, numbness/tingling of arms/legs, etc.
Precautions before taking Lomotil
Before taking diphenoxylate with atropine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to either drug; or to hyoscyamine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: liver disease (e.g., obstructive jaundice, cirrhosis), diarrhea caused by certain types of infections (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea following recent antibiotic therapy, bacterial infection of the gut caused by E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella).
- Lomotil is not recommended for use in children
- Overdose can lead to severe health problems such as convulsions, rapid eye movement, vomiting, and hallucinations.
Interactions
Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: ambenonium, pramlintide. If you are currently using any of these medications listed above, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting diphenoxylate with atropine. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine), naltrexone, potassium tablets/capsules.
It’s very important to use this drug properly. So, contact a poison control center or get to an emergency immediately if you believe you have taken too much Lomotil, as an overdose can cause respiratory problems, and may result in permanent brain damage or death.
