ULTRAVIST 370 SOLUTION FOR INJECTION (Each ml solution for injection contains lopromide 769mg
lopromide
What it does
Loperamide is a medication that helps slow down bowel movements and decrease the number of loose stools.
Commonly used for: diarrhoea, acute diarrhoea, chronic diarrhoea
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-06-28 06:58:32 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:13
About this medicine
Loperamide is a medication that helps slow down bowel movements and decrease the number of loose stools.
What it treats
- diarrhoea
- acute diarrhoea
- chronic diarrhoea
How it works
It works by acting on the gut to reduce the speed of movement through the intestines, allowing for more water to be absorbed and resulting in firmer stools.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children over a certain age who are experiencing diarrhoea.
Cautions
- • Not suitable for people with certain types of diarrhoea caused by infections.
- • May cause constipation if used inappropriately.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: lopromide
Loperamide is an opioid-receptor agonist primarily used as an antidiarrheal medication. It works by slowing down gut movement, which results in increased absorption of fluids and electrolytes from the intestinal contents. Loperamide is effective in treating acute and chronic diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea and diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
Indications
- Acute diarrhea
- Chronic diarrhea
- Traveler's diarrhea
- Diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Loperamide acts on the mu-opioid receptors in the myenteric plexus of the large intestine, inhibiting peristalsis and increasing the time for absorption of fluids and electrolytes. This leads to reduced stool frequency and increased stool viscosity.
Pharmacodynamics
Loperamide reduces the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to prolonged transit time and enhanced absorption of fluids and electrolytes. It also increases the tone of the anal sphincter, reducing fecal urgency and incontinence. Its effects are dose-dependent, with higher doses providing greater inhibition of gut motility.
Pharmacokinetics
Loperamide is well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, resulting in low bioavailability. The drug is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4 and CYP2C8 enzymes. Its elimination half-life is approximately 10.8 hours, and it is excreted mainly in the feces as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to loperamide or any excipients in the formulation
- Acute dysentery, characterized by blood in stools and fever
- Pseudomembranous colitis associated with antibiotic use
- Abdominal pain without diarrhea
- Ulcerative colitis
- Severe liver impairment
Adverse effects
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Abdominal discomfort
- Toxic megacolon (in cases of underlying bowel disease)
Interactions
- CNS depressants may enhance the sedative effects of loperamide
- Quinidine, ritonavir, and other P-glycoprotein inhibitors may increase loperamide plasma concentrations
- Anticholinergic drugs may potentiate the effects of loperamide
Precautions
- Monitor hydration status, especially in young children and elderly patients
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Discontinue if abdominal distension, ileus, or severe constipation occurs
- Not recommended for chronic diarrhea without medical evaluation
Pregnancy
Loperamide should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Loperamide is excreted in breast milk, and should be used with caution while breastfeeding.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Capsules
- Liquid preparations
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.