Whether it was a stomach virus, an exotic meal, or a favorite snack that disrupted your stomach, we’ve all experienced diarrhea.
Over-the-counter medications like Imodium are especially helpful for getting a person back on their feet after some stomach issues. Unfortunately, Imodium side effects can leave a person more uncomfortable or in more pain than before. Our drug rehab center Gilman knows that a person who abuses Imodium may not only suffer from adverse symptoms but may also come face to face with the ugly side of addiction.
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What Is Imodium?
Imodium, more commonly known as Loperamide, is an antidiarrheal medication that’s available over-the-counter or by prescription. Loperamide is used to alleviate acute and chronic diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Imodium is also used to reduce discharge from ileostomies, surgeries during which an opening for waste to leave the body is created. Loperamide works by slowing down or disrupting the flow of electrolytes and other fluids in the bowel. This decreases the movement of the bowel as well as the frequency of bowel movements.
Side Effects of Imodium
Dehydration is the main concern when it comes to diarrhea. Imodium can help regulate bowel movements and reduce dehydration in people who are experiencing diarrhea. However, while Loperamide is beneficial for treating diarrhea and IBD, it can also be addictive. The rate of Imodium abuse has risen in the past decade because people have discovered that it can produce similar effects to those of opioids when taken in high doses. While it may offer temporary relief and euphoria, the side effects of taking Imodium can be deadly.
Short-Term Imodium Side Effects
The immediate effects of Imodium include:
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Skin rash or itching
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Irregular heart rate
Long-Term Imodium Side Effects
Individuals who have abused Imodium for a long time may experience side effects like:
- Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
- Problems urinating
- Fainting
- Hives or wells
- Itching and skin rashes
- Joint or muscle pain
- Painful urination
- Low or no blood pressure or pulse
- Redness of the skin
- Bloodshot and irritated eyes
- Red skin lesions
- Sore throat
- Ulcers in the mouth or on the lips
- Sudden stopping of the heart
- Swelling in the face, lips, eyes, tongue, throat, and extremities
These symptoms often occur when a person takes too much Imodium or takes it too frequently. While Imodium can be purchased over-the-counter, it does not mean it’s safe. Frequent misuse or abuse of this drug can lead to dependence. Our residential treatment program at Banyan Treatment Centers Heartland is an inpatient rehab program that separates patients from outside distractions so they can focus on their recovery. If you’re struggling with addiction, our program can help.
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How Long Do Imodium Side Effects Last?
The effects of Imodium usually kick in within an hour of the person’s last dose and can last for a few hours. The average half-life of Imodium is about 10 hours. Half-life refers to the amount of time it takes for half a dose of a substance to be released from the body. Loperamide (Imodium) can stay in a person’s system for 10 to 14 hours, and it can take up to three days for the body to be completely cleared of it.
At Banyan Heartland, we offer a medically monitored detox that can help an individual struggling with Imodium abuse wean off of it and begin addiction treatment on a clean slate. This medically assisted treatment includes 24-hour supervision and medication administered by medical personnel as needed.
To get addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, call us at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our residential drug and alcohol treatment in Illinois.
