Loperamide

Loperamide In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Opioid agonist that alters GI motility by acting on receptors in the myenteric plexus.
• It normally has no central action.

Uses of Loperamide

• Management of non-specific acute and chronic diarrhoea, and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Use with care in cats.

Dose of Loperamide in Dogs and Cats

Dogs, Cats:

• All uses: 0.04–0.2 mg/kg p.o. q8–12h.

Side Effects of Loperamide in Dogs and Cats

• Constipation will occur in some cases.
• In cats excitability may be seen.

Contraindications of Loperamide in Dogs and Cats

• Intestinal obstruction.
• Do not use in dogs likely to be ivermectin-sensitive, e.g. collies.
• The mutation of the multiple drug resistance (MDR1 or ABCB1) genes in these dogs allow loperamide (a P-glycoprotein substrate) to penetrate the CNS and cause profound sedation.

Some Notes:

• Avoid concurrent use with other drugs that reduce GI motility.