How long does it take for Imodium to work?

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective treatment for diarrhoea, you may have previously tried Imodium syrup. However, Imodium syrup is no longer available. Instead, an alternative is available in the form of Imodium capsules.

Also called loperamide, Imodium capsules are a common go-to treatment for diarrhoea, in particular sudden diarrhoea. When the time comes for Imodium, you’ll probably need it to work as quickly as possible. So if you’re wondering how long it takes to feel the benefits, then read on.

Diarrhoea is a very common condition, and while most cases are mild, it can sometimes require medical attention. The most common cause is gastroenteritis. People often suffer diarrhoea when travelling abroad when they are exposed to food they are not used to eating. It can also be the result of stress, allergies, medication, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What causes diarrhoea?

Diarrhoea occurs when the cells in your small intestine or colon become irritated, which increases the movements in your intestines. This causes fluids and salts to be passed through the colon far too quickly to be absorbed. As more fluid stays in your intestine as the food travels through, it results in watery, more frequent bowel movements.

Imodium capsules contain the active ingredient loperamide which slows down the movement of digested food through the colon. This helps your body absorb more water through your intestines, making your stool firmer and ensuring you don’t have to go to the toilet as often.

How long does Imodium take to work?

Imodium capsules can improve your symptoms in under an hour and can remain effective for several hours after you have taken them.

Depending on the cause of your diarrhoea, it may take 2 to 4 days for your diarrhoea to subside. In most cases, Imodium capsules can bring relief and restore your gut’s normal rhythm within 48 hours.

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What to look out for when buying Imodium?

Imodium comes in various forms, including:

• Tablets and hard or soft capsules. You can usually take these with a drink of water as you would any other medicine.
• Tablets that melt on your tongue. Often called ‘Imodium Instants’ or ‘Imodium Instant Melts’, you should put it on your tongue and allow it to slowly dissolve. It is then acceptable to swallow the rest with a drink.

If you are unsure as to which form is right for you, talk to a pharmacist about your symptoms, and they should be able to help you make the right decision. You may have previously used Imodium syrup to relieve diarrhoea symptoms, but this is no longer available. Instead, you may find Imodium capsules to be a suitable alternative.

Some supermarkets and pharmacies sell in-house brands of loperamide capsules, commonly referred to as "anti-diarrhoeal" or "diarrhoea relief" on the label.

Some products even contain the term "IBS" to tell customers that they can be used for diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome. However, products without IBS in their name can also be used by people with IBS.

According to the NHS, here are some things to think about when taking Imodium:

• For adults, the usual starting dose for Imodium is 2 capsules which you should take straight away when your symptoms start.
• You should then take 1 capsule after each bout of diarrhoea.
• You shouldn’t take any more than 6 Imodium capsules if you have bought it over the counter from a supermarket or pharmacy. Or 8 capsules if you have a prescription for Imodium capsules.
• As soon as your symptoms settle, stop taking Imodium capsules. You shouldn’t take them for longer than 48 hours without talking to a clinician. For chronic conditions like IBS, follow your doctor’s advice.
• Diarrhoea can dehydrate you quickly, so remember to keep your body hydrated.

Remember: Imodium is a short-term solution

Try not to make a habit of taking Imodium capsules as they won't address the root cause of your sudden bowel disturbances. Once you have gained control of your bowel movements, look for the reason why you have diarrhoea and tackle it head-on.

Do not take Imodium for more than 48 hours without speaking to a doctor, if you initially bought it to treat short-term diarrhoea. Most cases of diarrhoea will improve within a week. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms of diarrhoea haven't improved in 7 days. After this time, it's important to begin to treat the effects of diarrhoea, such as dehydration.

Try not to take more than the recommended dose. Greater doses can cause severe heart problems and can even lead to a rapid or uneven heartbeat (tachycardia). If you are concerned that you may have taken too much, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Authored & Reviewed By

Mohamed Imran Lakhi

MPharm - Lead Pharmacist

Imran Lakhi is the superintendent pharmacist and founder at Prescription Doctor. He has been at the core of our team.

Published on: 14/08/2019 Reviewed on: 04/10/2024