Loperamide dependence and abuse.
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.
Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, Washington, USA.
Ryan
R
MacDonald
Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
Jason
J
Heiner
Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.
Joshua
J
Villarreal
Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
Jared
J
Strote
D000328:Adult; D000930:Antidiarrheals / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000506:poisoning; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D008139:Loperamide / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000506:poisoning; D008297:Male; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy
D000930:Antidiarrheals; D008139:Loperamide