c. Diphenoxylate with Atropine (Lomotil). Lomotil is an antidiarrheal that
acts by slowing intestinal motility. Since this drug may cause drowsiness, patients
taking it should be cautioned about this. Theoretically, at high doses Lomotil can be
addicting. Therefore, Lomotil is a Note Q item. A subtherapeutic dose of atropine is
added to the product to discourage deliberate overdosage. The usual dose of Lomotil
is one or two tables four times a day. It is supplied in tablet form, each tablet contains
2.5 milligrams of diphenoxylate and 0.025 milligram of atropine sulfate and in liquid form
containing the same amount of each drug in 5 milliliters (one teaspoonful) of solution.
d. Loperamide (Imodium). Loperamide is another drug which acts by slowing
intestinal motility. Since this agent may cause drowsiness, the patient should be
cautioned against doing anything requiring mental alertness while taking the drug.
Imodium is supplied in the form of 2 milligram capsules. The usual dose is 4
milligrams (two capsules) immediately, then 2 milligrams (one capsule) after each loose
bowel movement.
e. Attapulgite (Parepectolin). Attapulgite is used in the treatment of diarrhea.
A side effect associated with this agent is stool may temporarily appear gray-black.
Also if diarrhea is accompanied by high fever or continues for more then 2 days, consult
physician. The patient should be informed of this side effect.
MD0807
3-5