Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) 2mg Capsule 100's

Product Description:

Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) is a 2mg capsule formulation used to treat diarrhea. It is an anti-diarrheal medication that works by slowing down the movement of the muscles in the gut, allowing more water to be absorbed and reducing the frequency of stools. Datab 2mg Capsule is typically used for both acute and chronic diarrhea, including diarrhea caused by conditions such as gastroenteritis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Indications:

Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) is used for:

1. Acute Diarrhea:

   • For short-term relief of acute diarrhea in both adults and children (usually over 6 years old). It helps reduce the frequency and urgency of stools and can provide symptomatic relief.

2. Chronic Diarrhea:

   • For long-term management of chronic diarrhea in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

3. Traveler's Diarrhea:

   • It can help manage diarrhea caused by bacterial or viral infections while traveling.

4. Post-Surgical Diarrhea:

   • It is used to manage diarrhea following certain types of abdominal surgery, such as bowel surgery.

Dosage and Administration:

For Adults:

• Initial Dose (Acute Diarrhea): 4 mg (2 capsules) initially, followed by 2 mg (1 capsule) after each loose stool. The maximum dose should not exceed 8 capsules per day (16 mg).

• Maintenance Dose (Chronic Diarrhea): The dose is adjusted based on the response, typically ranging from 2 mg to 4 mg per day, depending on the frequency and severity of symptoms.

For Children (6 years and above):

• Initial Dose: 2 mg (1 capsule) initially.

• Maintenance Dose: 1–2 mg (½ to 1 capsule) after each loose stool. The maximum dose should not exceed 6 mg (3 capsules) per day.

For Traveler's Diarrhea:

• Adults: 4 mg initially, followed by 2 mg after each loose stool. Do not exceed 8 mg in a 24-hour period.

Side Effects:

Common side effects of Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) may include:

1. Constipation: The most common side effect due to the slowing of the bowel.

2. Abdominal discomfort: Including bloating or cramping.

3. Dry mouth.

4. Dizziness or drowsiness.

5. Nausea.

Serious side effects (although rare) can include:

1. Severe Constipation: This can cause a blockage in the intestine, leading to discomfort, bloating, and potential complications.

2. Toxic Megacolon: A serious condition where the colon dilates and becomes severely inflamed.

3. Heart Problems: Such as QT prolongation, which can cause abnormal heart rhythms (especially in overdose situations or those with a pre-existing heart condition).

4. Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling (particularly of the face or throat), and difficulty breathing. These may indicate an anaphylactic reaction.

Contraindications:

Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) should not be used in the following conditions:

1. Hypersensitivity: If the patient is allergic to loperamide or any of the excipients in the formulation.

2. Acute Dysentery: Diarrhea with bloody stools or fever, as it may worsen the condition.

3. Pseudomembranous Colitis: A condition often associated with prolonged antibiotic use, leading to colon inflammation.

4. Diarrhea Caused by Antibiotics: Particularly when Clostridium difficile infection is suspected or confirmed.

5. Children under 6 years of age: Loperamide is generally not recommended for young children, especially those under 2 years old due to the risk of severe side effects and complications.

6. Severe Liver Disease: Use caution in patients with severe liver conditions, as the drug's metabolism is liver-dependent.

7. Intestinal Obstruction: Loperamide should not be used if there is any risk of bowel obstruction or ileus.

Precautions:

1. Overdose: If overdose occurs, medical attention should be sought immediately, as symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation, distended abdomen, or ileus.

2. Pregnancy and Lactation:

   • Pregnancy: Loperamide should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider.

   • Lactation: Small amounts of loperamide may be excreted in breast milk, so use caution in breastfeeding mothers.

3. Use with Caution in Children: Only use for children aged 6 years and older and under the guidance of a physician. Children under 2 years should never use this medication.

4. Chronic Diarrhea: If symptoms of chronic diarrhea persist, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause rather than solely relying on loperamide.

Conclusion:

Loperamide Hydrochloride (Datab) 2mg Capsule is an effective anti-diarrheal medication used to manage various types of diarrhea, including acute, chronic, and travel-related diarrhea. While it is generally well-tolerated, it should be used with caution in certain conditions, and appropriate dosing should be followed to avoid side effects such as constipation or heart problems.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment, especially if the patient has a pre-existing condition, is pregnant, or is a child under 6 years old.