Imodium Plus Caplets 12

What is Imodium Plus Caplets 12?

Imodium Plus Caplets, which the manufacturer now labels Imodium Dual Action Relief Tablets, are a two-in-one treatment for short-lived (acute) diarrhoea that comes with gas-related discomfort such as bloating, cramping or wind. Each caplet contains loperamide, the same antidiarrhoeal as standard Imodium, plus simeticone, an anti-wind agent.

How does it help?

Loperamide slows the movement of the bowel muscles, so the gut has more time to reabsorb water and stools become firmer and less frequent. Simeticone works physically rather than chemically: it changes the surface tension of trapped gas bubbles so they merge and can be passed more easily, relieving bloating and cramps. Adults take two caplets to start, then one after each loose stool; 12 to 17 year olds take one to start, then one after each loose stool. Do not take more than four caplets in 24 hours or for more than two days.

Key benefits

• Treats the diarrhoea and the bloating, cramps and wind together in one caplet
• Loperamide is a well-established antidiarrhoeal for short-term relief
• Simeticone acts only in the gut and is not absorbed into the body
• Can be used by young people from 12 as well as adults

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Not for children under 12. Do not take if you have blood in your stools or a high temperature, if you have ulcerative colitis or a flare of inflammatory bowel disease, if your diarrhoea started during or after a course of antibiotics, or if you have a bacterial gut infection or a bowel blockage. Diarrhoea causes fluid loss, so drink plenty of fluids and consider an oral rehydration solution; the caplets treat the symptom, not the cause. Do not take for more than two days; if the diarrhoea has not settled within 48 hours, stop and see your doctor. Ask our pharmacist before use if you have liver disease, HIV or AIDS, a heart rhythm problem, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take other medicines. Never take more than the stated dose: overdose can cause serious heart rhythm problems.