RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Loperamide dependence and abuse
JF BMJ Case Reports
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP bcr2015209705
DO 10.1136/bcr-2015-209705
VO 2015
A1 MacDonald, Ryan
A1 Heiner, Jason
A1 Villarreal, Joshua
A1 Strote, Jared
YR 2015
UL http://casereports.bmj.com/content/2015/bcr-2015-209705.abstract
AB Loperamide is a common over-the-counter antidiarrheal considered safe in a broad range of dosages and thought devoid of abuse potential. We describe the first case of a patient with loperamide dependence due to misuse of its opiate-like effects achieved by chronic massive oral ingestions. A 26-year-old man who was taking 800 mg of loperamide per day presented requesting detoxification referral. Loperamide has potential for euphoric effects and information on how to facilitate such effects is easily available. It is important for physicians to be aware of the potential for misuse of and dependence on loperamide, with symptoms mimicking opiate use.