GI

Antidiarrheals

Gastrointestinal

Mark this drug class

Examples

loperamidediphenoxylate/atropine

Prefix / Suffix: No consistent suffix

Physiology

Diarrhea is increased frequency and water content of stool, often due to infection, inflammation, or rapid transit.

Mechanism of Action

They slow GI motility, allowing more water absorption and decreasing stool frequency. Loperamide acts on opioid receptors in the gut without significant CNS effects.

Indications

  • Acute non-infectious diarrhea
  • Chronic diarrhea (IBS)

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Drowsiness (diphenoxylate)
  • Cardiac arrhythmias (loperamide overdose)

Contraindications

  • Infectious diarrhea (C. difficile, bloody diarrhea — slows toxin clearance)
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Children < 2 years

Nursing Considerations

  • Do not use if fever or bloody stools (may indicate infection)
  • Monitor hydration and electrolytes (diarrhea causes fluid loss)
  • Assess stool frequency and consistency
  • Educate against exceeding recommended dose (loperamide cardiotoxicity)

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.