Imodium Instant Melts

What is Imodium Instant Melts?

Imodium Instant Melts are mint-flavoured tablets containing 2mg of loperamide hydrochloride that dissolve on the tongue, so no water is needed. They are licensed for the relief of acute (sudden, short-lived) diarrhoea in adults and children aged 12 and over, and for acute episodes of diarrhoea linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults aged 18 and over whose IBS has been diagnosed by a doctor.

How does it help?

Loperamide slows down the muscle movements of the bowel, so its contents pass through more slowly. That gives the gut more time to absorb water back into the body, which makes stools firmer and less frequent. Place the tablet on the tongue; it dissolves and is swallowed with saliva. The usual starting dose is 2 tablets, then 1 tablet after each loose stool, with no more than 6 tablets in 24 hours.

Key benefits

• Dissolves on the tongue, so it can be taken without water
• Start with 2 tablets, then 1 after each loose stool, up to 6 a day
• Also licensed for IBS diarrhoea in adults 18 and over after a doctor's diagnosis
• Small pack of 12 that is easy to keep in a bag or travel kit

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Not for children under 12. Do not take more than 6 tablets in 24 hours. Do not use it if there is blood in your stools or you have a high temperature, if you have a flare of ulcerative colitis, or if the diarrhoea started during or after a course of antibiotics. If the diarrhoea has not improved within 48 hours, stop taking it and see a doctor. Keep drinking plenty of fluids - replacing lost fluid and salts matters, and an oral rehydration sachet can help. Only use it for IBS if a doctor has already diagnosed your IBS, and speak to a doctor if your IBS symptoms have changed or new symptoms appear. Tell our pharmacist if you have liver problems or phenylketonuria (it contains aspartame), or if you are pregnant. It is not recommended while breastfeeding. This is a pharmacy medicine - our pharmacist checks it is right for you before it is supplied.