Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Measure the oral liquid with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

In addition to using medicine for diarrhea, it is very important that you replace the fluid lost by the body and follow a proper diet. For the first 24 hours you should eat gelatin and drink plenty of caffeine-free clear liquids, such as ginger ale, decaffeinated cola, decaffeinated tea, and broth. During the next 24 hours you may eat bland foods, such as cooked cereals, bread, crackers, and applesauce. Fruits, vegetables, fried or spicy foods, bran, candy, caffeine, and alcoholic beverages may make the condition worse.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For severe diarrhea:
    • For oral dosage form (oral liquid):
      • Adults—At first, the dose is 5 milligrams (mg) (2 teaspoonfuls) three or four times a day. Then, your doctor may decrease your dose to 5 mg (2 teaspoonfuls) once a day, as needed.
      • Children 12 years of age or younger—Use is not recommended.
    • For oral dosage form (tablets):
      • Adults and children 13 years of age and older—At first, the dose is 5 milligrams (mg) (2 tablets) four times a day. Then, your doctor may decrease your dose to 5 mg (2 tablets) once a day, as needed.
      • Children 6 to younger than 13 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
      • Children younger than 6 years of age—Use is not recommended.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

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Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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