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How long does Imodium stop diarrhea for?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on July 11, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Imodium will usually help to slow down your acute diarrhea in the first hour, but if your diarrhea continues you may need to take additional doses in the same day. Take no more than the recommended maximum dose per day. If your symptoms worsen or you have diarrhea that lasts for more than 2 days, contact your healthcare provider.

Most people only need to take Imodium for a day or two. Longer-lasting diarrhea or diarrhea that consistently comes and goes might mean you have an underlying medical condition, so you should talk to your doctor.

Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clear fluids like oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte. These products generally contain a specific mixture of salt, glucose and water to help replace lost carbohydrates and electrolytes.

Imodium A-D (loperamide) is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) product at pharmacies, grocery stores and other retail shops to treat diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea.

Follow the dosing directions for your specific Imodium A-D product. Do not take more than the recommended dose on the Drug Facts label. Taking more Imodium than recommended can lead to dangerous heart problems. If you have any questions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.

You should not use any Imodium or loperamide product if you have ulcerative colitis, bloody or tarry stools, diarrhea with a high fever, or diarrhea caused by antibiotic medication.

Learn More: What are the side effects of Imodium A-D?

Why do I get diarrhea?

Diarrhea can be short-term or long-term.

Contact your doctor if your diarrhea lasts longer than 2 days for an evaluation and diagnosis.

Can I use Imodium if I have diarrhea from COVID?

If you have diarrhea, ask your doctor if Imodium is an appropriate treatment if you are positive for COVID. Some people may need prescription medicines for COVID within 5 days of symptom onset, so contact your doctor immediately if you test positive.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID, such a fever, cough, headache, shortness of breath, runny nose, or diarrhea or other stomach side effects, test for COVID at home or at a pharmacy, or ask your doctor right away if you should test for COVID.

Studies have shown that stomach (digestive tract) symptoms like diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain can occur in patients with COVID-19.

Related questions

Which Imodium product should I use?

There are many Imodium A-D options to choose from. There are products for adults, children over age 6 and even combination products to help with associated gas and diarrhea. Refer to the product labeling for dosing.

Do not use any OTC Imodium products in children 2 years of age or younger (up to 33 lbs).

Imodium A-D Caplets

Imodium A-D SoftGels

Imodium A-D Oral Solution

Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Caplets

Imodium A-D for Children 6+

Is there a generic for Imodium?

Most Imodium products are available as a generic on the shelves (loperamide) which might save you some money. If you do not see them on the shelves, ask your pharmacist.

Loperamide and simethicone is also available as a generic, in a chewable tablet or oral tablet you swallow, to help with diarrhea and associated gas.

References
  • Pan L, Mu M, Yang P, et al. Clinical Characteristics of COVID-19 Patients With Digestive Symptoms in Hubei, China: A Descriptive, Cross-Sectional, Multicenter Study. Am J Gastroenterol. 2020 May;115(5):766–73. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000000620
  • Imodium.com. FAQs. Johnson and Johnson. Accessed July 21, 2022 at https://www.imodium.com/faq
  • Loperamide. Drugs.com. Accessed July 21, 2022 at https://www.drugs.com/loperamide.html

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