Loperamide Hydrochloride: Chemical Structure, Mechanism of Action, Uses & Side Effects

Chemical Structure:

• C29H33ClN2O2 · HCl

Chemical Structure

Mechanism of Action:

• It acts on opioid receptors in the gut to decrease intestinal motility and increase the absorption of electrolytes and water.

Uses:

• Acute and Chronic Diarrhea: Effective in managing symptoms of diarrhea.

Side Effects:

• Constipation: Most common side effect.

• Abdominal Pain: May occur in some cases.

• CNS Effects: Rare, as it generally does not cross the blood-brain barrier.