Galpharm Diarrhoea Relief 2mg Capsules is a medicine that contains Loperamide Hydrochloride, an anti-diarrhoeal medicine that helps to stop diarrhoea by making stools more solid and less frequent. It is used to treat sudden short-lived (acute) attacks of diarrhoea.

Key features:

Contains 2mg Loperamide per capsule.
Slows down overactive bowel to reduce frequency of toilet visits.
Helps body absorb water and salts lost during diarrhoea.
Provides quick relief from diarrhoea symptoms.
Suitable for short-term use.
Can be used for stomach bugs and food poisoning.

What is the active ingredient and how does it work?

The active ingredient in Galpharm Diarrhoea Relief 2mg Capsules is Loperamide Hydrochloride, an anti-diarrhoeal medicine. Loperamide works by reducing muscle contractions in the intestine, which helps to slow down the movement of the bowel and makes stools more solid and less frequent. This medicine is used for the treatment of sudden short-lived (acute) attacks of diarrhoea

How long does it take for Loperamide to start working?

Loperamide is a medication commonly used to treat diarrhoea. It usually starts to work within 1 hour of taking it and can help to make your symptoms better. While the exact timing may vary depending on the individual, in most cases, Loperamide provides fast relief by slowing down the movement of your gut and reducing the frequency and urgency of bowel movements. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist and not exceed the recommended dosage to avoid any potential side effects.

How should I take this medicine?

Adults, the elderly and children over 12 years should take the capsules as follows: after the first loose stool (bowel motion), take 2 capsules. After each further loose stool, take 1 capsule. Do not take more than 6 capsules in any 24 hours. Do not take the capsules for more than 24 hours unless a doctor advises.

What should I do before taking this medicine?

Before taking Galpharm Diarrhoea Relief 2mg Capsules, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you suffer from liver or kidney problems, including difficulty in urinating, have severe and persistent diarrhoea and vomiting, have diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, or suffer from severe diarrhoea as your body loses more fluid, sugars and salts than normal.

What are the warnings and precautions associated with this medicine?

Serious heart problems have been reported in patients who have taken too much loperamide, the active ingredient in this medicine. If you are taking any other medicines, especially Ritonavir (used to treat HIV), Quinidine (used to treat abnormal heart rhythms or malaria), Oral desmopressin (used to treat excess urination), Itraconazole or ketoconazole (used to treat fungal infections), or Gemfibrozil (used to treat high cholesterol), you should inform your doctor or pharmacist. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, or are breastfeeding, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Serious side effects, including allergic reactions, rashes, and loss of consciousness, are rare but can occur. Common side effects may include feeling sick, constipation, or wind, while uncommon side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, abdominal pain or discomfort, dry mouth, or indigestion. Rare side effects may include loss of vision, stomach pain or swollen stomach, difficulties in passing water, or tiredness. If you experience any serious side effects, you should stop taking the medicine and see your doctor immediately.

What are some possible causes of diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea can be caused by a variety of factors such as an acute infection in the bowel, overuse of certain medications such as antibiotics, excessive intake of fibre-rich foods including dried fruit or pure fruit juice, overuse of laxatives, anxiety and stress, or the consumption of caffeine, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, or sweets containing sorbitol.

What can I do to control an acute diarrhoea attack?

Most cases of acute diarrhoea will resolve on their own, but you can help manage the symptoms by getting rest and avoiding solid foods for a few hours or up to a day depending on the severity of the attack. It is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, and the recommended daily fluid intake for adults is between 1.5-2 litres (6-8 glasses). If the symptoms persist after a few hours, taking an anti-diarrhoea tablet such as loperamide, following the manufacturer's instructions, may help to control the attack.

Over The Counter (OTC)

Ingredients

Contains:

Active ingredient: Loperamide Hydrochloride 2mg

Other Ingredients: Lactulose, Maize Starch, Talc, Magnesium Stearate, Gelatin, Quinoline Yellow (E104), Erythrosine (E127), Patent Blue (E131), Titanium Dioxide (E171)

Usage and Instructions

For oral use only.

Adults, the elderly and children over 12 years: Take 2 capsules with water initially, followed by 1 capsule after each loose stool, up to a maximum of 6 capsules in any 24 hours.

Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Warnings

Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Do not take more than the stated dose.

If symptoms persist consult your doctor. Do not continue to take these capsules for longer than 24 hours unless instructed by your doctor.

Keep out of reach and sight of children.

Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton.

Diarrhea can cause your body to be dehydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water and electrolytes, such as Dioralyte, to replace the fluids and mineral lost. If you develop signs of dehydration (e.g. extreme thirst, infrequent urination, muscle cramps, weakness, fainting) contact your doctor immediately.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, loperamide can cause side effects, but many people have no side effects or only minor ones.

These common side effects happen in more than 1 in 100 people. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you feel uncomfortable with these side effects, or they don't go away: