LOPERAREN
Loperaren (Loperamide hydrochloride) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent (NSAID) that inhibits cyclooxygenase, which is necessary for the formation of prostaglandins and other autacoids. It also inhibits the motility of polymorph-nuclear leukocytes.
Presentation
Blister pack of 10 x 10
Description
Indications
Loperamide hydrochloride is indicated for the control and symptomatic relief of acute nonspecific diarrhoea and of chronic diarrhoea associated with inflammatory bowel disease. Loperamide hydrochloride is also indicated for reducing the volume of discharge from ileostomies.
Pharmacological class
Antidiarrheal
Pharmacological properties
Decreases gastrointestinal motility
Mechanism of action
Loperamide acts on the mu-receptors in the intestinal mucosa. This leads to a decrease in gastrointestinal motility by decreasing the circular and longitudinal smooth muscle activity of the intestinal wall. This slows intestinal transit and allows for more water and electrolyte absorption from the intestines.
Side effects
Abdominal cramps, dizziness, drowsiness, and skin reactions, including urticaria reported; paralytic ileus and abdominal bloating also reported.
Contra indications
Loperaren is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Loperamide.
Drug interactions
Loperamide interacts with: Pramlintide, recent/current antibiotic use, drugs that can cause constipation (e.g., anticholinergics such as belladonna/scopolamine/ benztropine, antispasmodics such as glycopyrrolate/ Oxybutynin, potent narcotic pain medicines such as morphine, certain antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline), cholestyramine, ritonavir, saquinavir.
