Everything You Need to Know About Diphenoxylate/Atropine
Lomotil (Diphenoxylate/Atropine)
Lomotil is the brand name for the combination of two active ingredients, Diphenoxylate and Atropine. It is commonly prescribed to manage diarrhea.
Pharmacologic Category
Lomotil belongs to a class of drugs known as antidiarrheals. Other medications in this category include Loperamide (Imodium) and Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).
Dosing
Diarrhea
The usual adult dosage of Lomotil for diarrhea is 5 mg (2 tablets) four times a day. Dosage should be adjusted to individual response; total daily dosage should not exceed 20 mg (8 tablets).
Acute Gastroenteritis
Treatment for acute gastroenteritis with Lomotil is similar to that for diarrhea. The dosage is 5 mg (2 tablets) four times a day, adjusted according to the individual’s response.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Lomotil is available as a tablet containing 2.5 mg of diphenoxylate hydrochloride and 0.025 mg of atropine sulfate. It’s also available as a liquid for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
Administration Instructions
Lomotil can be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, taking it with food or milk may help. Never exceed the recommended dosage and always take Lomotil under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Possible side effects of Lomotil include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. If these persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. In rare cases, Lomotil can cause serious side effects such as severe stomach pain or bloating, and difficulty urinating. Always consult your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Contraindications to Taking Lomotil
Lomotil is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to diphenoxylate or atropine. It’s also not recommended for patients with obstructive jaundice and those with diarrhea associated with pseudomembranous enterocolitis or enterotoxin-producing bacteria.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Lomotil can interact with several other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of serious side effects. These include sedatives like Alprazolam (Xanax) and Zolpidem (Ambien), and certain antihistamines like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
Lomotil in Pregnancy
It’s unclear whether Lomotil is safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your
Lomotil in Pregnancy
It’s unclear whether Lomotil is safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
Lomotil While Breastfeeding
Small amounts of diphenoxylate and atropine can pass into breast milk. It is advisable to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before using this medication while breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Lomotil tablets (using a goodRX coupon) is approximately $35-$50. However, prices can vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and any negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. Remember, these prices are only estimates.
Brief Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Lomotil in Pregnancy
It’s unclear whether Lomotil is safe to use during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
Lomotil While Breastfeeding
Small amounts of diphenoxylate and atropine can pass into breast milk. It is advisable to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before using this medication while breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Lomotil tablets (using a goodRX coupon) is approximately $35-$50. However, prices can vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and any negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. Remember, these prices are only estimates.
Brief Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Meta title: Understanding Diphenoxylate/Atropine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, and More.
Meta description: Comprehensive patient-friendly guide to Diphenoxylate/Atropine, a medication commonly used to manage diarrhea. Learn about its uses, dosage, potential side effects, drug interactions, and more.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.