Imodium Overdoses Linked to Heart Problems

The Federal Drug Administration has warned that taking higher than the recommended doses of Imodium, whether intentionally or unintentionally can lead to serious heart problems and even death.

If you or someone you know has taken Imodium in higher than recommended doses, whether intentionally or unintentionally and is experiencing any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately:

• An Irregular or rapid heartbeat

• Fainting

• Unresponsiveness

Imodium Abuse

It happens to all of us at one time or another. We eat a bit of the wrong thing or get a little gastrointestinal (GI)​ bug and before you know it, we have diarrhea.

When diarrhea gets bad it enough, it can be extremely uncomfortable and even painful. Thankfully, over the counter remedies exist and one such remedy is Imodium. The problem is that people are now starting to abuse Imodium in record numbers.

But why?

Loperamide, the principle ingredient in Imodium, interacts with the opioid receptors in our bodies, much like heroin does. When opioid receptors in our brains are stimulated by narcotics like heroin, it can cause us to feel high.

When taken as directed, the amount of loperamide in Imodium is just enough to interact with the opioid receptors in our GI tract and slow it down, thereby eliminating diarrhea​. But when taken in larger than recommended amounts, loperamide can enter the bloodstream, reach the brain, and interact with the brain’s opioid receptors and cause a euphoric feeling.

The typical dose of loperamide needed to relieve a person of diarrhea is 4 tablets per day. But some Imodium addicts are now taking more than 100 tablets per day. Loperamide taken in such large doses can not only make you high (and very constipated), but it can also lead to a fatal irregular heart rhythm.

People are now overdosing on loperamide––some even dying from loperamide overdoses. In the wake of these events, we should expect to see stricter regulation on the sale of Imodium soon. More information on the subject is likely to follow as the issue develops.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

If you have any questions regarding your use of Imodium or loperamide and any serious adverse effects you may be experiencing, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. Most personal injury attorneys offer a free initial consultation and will handle your case on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will pay nothing unless they recover money on your behalf.