atropine and diphenoxylate

Brand name(s):

atropine-diphenoxylate, Lomotil, Lonox, Vi-Atro

What is the most important information I should know about atropine and diphenoxylate?

If you are giving this medication to a child, pay close attention to the dose. An atropine and diphenoxylate overdose is more likely to occur in a child, and can cause breathing problems or result in death or permanent brain damage.

Use only the liquid form of this medicine in a child younger than 13 years old. Do not give atropine and diphenoxylate tablets to a child under 13.

Drink extra water while you are taking this medication to keep from getting dehydrated. It may take up to 48 hours of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 10 days of treatment.

What is atropine and diphenoxylate?

Atropine affects the body in many different ways, such as reducing spasms in the bladder, stomach, and intestines.

Diphenoxylate is an antidiarrheal medication.

The combination of atropine and diphenoxylate is used to treat diarrhea.

Atropine and diphenoxylate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking atropine and diphenoxylate?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to atropine or diphenoxylate, or if you have:

jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes caused by a liver disorder);
diarrhea that is caused by bacteria; or
diarrhea caused by taking an antibiotic.

Before taking atropine and diphenoxylate, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

blocked intestines;
an intestinal disorder such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease;
liver disease;
kidney disease;
heart disease, heart rhythm problems, or high blood pressure;
glaucoma;
Down's syndrome;
a thyroid disorder;
problems with urination;
an enlarged prostate;
asthma or other lung problems; or
if you are dehydrated;

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take atropine and diphenoxylate.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Atropine and diphenoxylate may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 years old.

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