Loperamide: Mechanism of Action and Drug Interactions

Loperamide: Mechanism of Action and Drug Interactions
Loperamide, also called Imodium, is one of the suitable agents used in treating and relieving diarrhea. The medication is highly efficient in reducing the frequency of diarrhea. Loperamide medication is inappropriate for individuals with mucus or blood in their stool. The medication was originated in 1968 and one of the best medications on the WHO's list (Imodium Capsules Rx., 2016). The paper analyzes Loperamide by integrating its mechanism of action, drug interactions, considerations, and benefits.
Loperamide slows intestinal motility and affects the bowel's movement of electrolytes and water. Besides, it also binds to the gut wall's opiate receptor, reducing diarrhea frequency (Imodium Capsules Rx., 2016). After it binds to the receptor, it limits the production of prostaglandins and acetylcholine, which further reduces the propulsive peristalsis. The outcome of such action is high transit time in the intestines. Consequently, the medication escalates the anal sphincter tone and incontinence. The highlighted mechanism makes the medication more effective than others, such as Bismuth subsalicylate.
Loperamide actions must be monitored immediately after consumption due to its side effects. The major side effect is abdominal pain (Imodium Capsules Rx., 2016). Due to its action, such as triggering the opiate receptor, the patient may be exposed to abdominal pain, which does not last long. It is essential to note such pain; whenever it is extreme, it is advisable to see a doctor. The other side effects are dry mouth, vomit, sleepiness, and constipation. Besides, Loperamide also uniformly interacts with other drugs, including CAM, since it does not intensively react. Therefore, it is easy to use it with other drugs. More than 330 medications successfully interact with Lopera...