Let's learn about this medicine for diarrhea? (Diphenoxylate; Atropine)

Have you ever been to a doctor for diarrhea and been given this medicine? Or does anyone in your family use it? The name of this medicine is Diphenoxylate and Atropine. You may know it by brand names like Lomotil and Lonox. Today, let's talk about this medicine that is used to control diarrhea in a simple way.

What really happens with this medicine?

Simply put, this medicine controls diarrhea. When you have a bowel movement, your intestines are moving too fast. So this medicine slows down the speed of your intestines and controls their movement. This reduces the number of times you need to go to the bathroom. It belongs to a class of medicines called antidiarrheals.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine

It is very important for your doctor to know your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor about them.

• If you have bacterial food poisoning.
• If you have an inflammatory bowel condition (Colitis).
• If you have dehydration.
• If you have Down's syndrome.
• If you have jaundice or other liver disease.
• If you have an allergy to Diphenoxylate, Atropine, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor without hiding these things.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

It is very important to know exactly how to use this medicine.

• Take this pill with a glass of water.
• Take the prescribed dose, at the prescribed time, as prescribed by your doctor. Never take more than the doctor tells you to.
• You can take this pill with food.
• Usually, once your diarrhea is under control, your doctor will tell you to reduce the dosage of the medication.
• Special care must be taken when giving this medicine to children , so follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
• Elderly people may be more sensitive to this medicine, so they should be careful when using it.

What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.Or call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Don't delay as this can be very dangerous.

What if I miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.

Be careful with these things when taking medicine! (Interactions)

Other medications you take while taking this medicine may affect how well it works. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). This medicine may interact with the following, in particular:

• Alcohol
• Medicines for allergies, coughs, and colds (Antihistamines)
• Barbiturate-type drugs used to induce sleep or treat epilepsy
• Some medications for mental illnesses like depression and anxiety
• Other sleeping pills
• Medications for movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease
• Muscle relaxants
• Opioid painkillers

This list is not complete, so it's best to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.

Things to keep in mind while taking the medicine

• If your diarrhea doesn't improve after two days of taking this medicine, be sure to talk to your doctor again. You may have another problem.
• If you have a fever or blood in your stool, see a doctor immediately.
• This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore , do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Drinking alcohol can make you feel more sleepy and dizzy, so avoid alcohol completely while taking this medication.
• Your mouth may feel dry . Chewing sugarless gum, sucking on unsweetened candy, and drinking plenty of water can help control this. If this problem persists or is severe, talk to your doctor. Drinking plenty of water is also important to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

Like any medicine, this medicine can cause side effects in some people. The table below provides details.

This list may not include all side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor about them.

How to store and dispose of medicine safely?

• Do not leave this medicine within the reach of children and pets.
• Some people may be tempted to misuse (abuse) this medicine, so keep it in a safe place where it cannot be stolen.
• Do not use expired medicine.
• Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius), away from light, and tightly closed to prevent air from entering.
• When disposing of leftover or expired medications, mix them with something like cat litter or coffee grounds, put them in a sealable bag or can, and throw them in the trash. This will help prevent someone else or an animal from using them.