Loperamide

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Loperamide

Loperamide (pronounced loh-PAIR-uh-mide) is a medication used to decrease the frequency of diarrhea. It is often used for this purpose in gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and short bowel syndrome.

Etymology

The term "Loperamide" is derived from the Greek words "lopo", meaning "to bind", and "amide", a chemical functional group containing nitrogen. This reflects the drug's mechanism of action, which involves binding to opioid receptors in the gut to slow intestinal motility.

Mechanism of Action

Loperamide works by slowing down the movement of the gut. This decreases the number of bowel movements and makes the stool less watery. Loperamide is also used to reduce the amount of discharge in patients who have undergone an ileostomy. It is also used to treat ongoing diarrhea in people with inflammatory bowel disease.

Side Effects

Loperamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, or constipation. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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