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# FDA Alert on OTC Diarrhea Medication
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-alert-on-otc-diarrhea-medication/
- Published: 2016-06-07T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T21:07:57.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5135864

FDA has issued a [drug safety alert](http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm504617.htm?source=govdelivery&utm%5Fmedium=email&utm%5Fsource=govdelivery) to warn that taking higher than recommended doses of the common over-the-counter and prescription diarrhea medicine loperamide (Imodium) can cause serious heart problems that can lead to death. “The risk of these serious heart problems, including abnormal heart rhythms, may also be increased when high doses of loperamide are taken with several kinds of medicines that interact with loperamide,” the alert says. The agency notes that most reported serious heart problems occurred in individuals who were intentionally misusing and abusing high doses of loperamide in attempts to self-treat opioid withdrawal symptoms or to achieve a feeling of euphoria. It says a safety evaluation is continuing to determine if additional FDA actions are needed.