What should you know about Imodium for diarrhoea?

Imodium contains loperamide, which slows movement through the intestine so the bowel can absorb more water. That can reduce urgency and stool frequency, but it does not remove the cause of diarrhoea. Short-lived diarrhoea may follow gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or a food intolerance. Ongoing or recurring symptoms can also occur with irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, giardiasis, or an overactive thyroid. The right treatment depends on the pattern, accompanying symptoms, medicines, and underlying health.

Follow the package directions or advice from a pharmacist, and never exceed the stated amount. Replace fluid and salts with frequent drinks or oral rehydration solution, especially after several loose stools. Eat small, plain meals if hungry. Do not take Imodium when there is blood or mucus in the stool, a high temperature, severe abdominal pain, marked swelling, or suspected invasive infection unless a clinician advises it. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with significant medical conditions should obtain individual advice.

Seek urgent help for severe dehydration, fainting, confusion, very little urine, persistent vomiting, severe pain, black stool, or blood in the stool. Arrange medical review if diarrhoea continues, keeps returning, follows recent antibiotics or travel, or is accompanied by weight loss, night symptoms, or fever. Stop self-treatment and seek advice if symptoms worsen after taking Imodium.

Is loperamide suitable for the likely cause of my diarrhoea? How should I replace fluids and salts? Do I need stool tests or blood tests? Which symptoms mean I should stop the medicine and seek care?