To understand diarrhoea, you first need to know how digestion works and what happens when we tip the balance.
How digestion works
When your digestive system is in its normal rhythm, food and fluid pass regularly from the stomach into the small intestine. Food is then broken down and nutrients are absorbed along with most of the fluid. The remaining waste and some water pass into the colon (large intestine) where more water is absorbed and finally the waste is passed in the form of stools.
When your small intestine or colon are irritated, the relaxed and regular movement of your intestines can become overactive. Essential salts and fluids end up being passed through the colon too quickly with less fluid being absorbed by the body. The result is loose or watery stools, commonly known as diarrhoea.
Imodium contains an active ingredient called loperamide, which gently slows down your digestion, to help your body restore its natural rhythm and resume normal fluid absorption.
Types of diarrhoea
Diarrhoea can be either acute (short lasting) or chronic (long lasting):
- Acute diarrhoea can be caused by many things including: Diet, stress, infection (e.g. food poisoning), IBS and menstruation.
- Chronic diarrhoea can be caused by long term underlying conditions such as ulcerative colitis or IBS.
Treating Diarrhoea with IMODIUM®
The good news is that you can treat acute diarrhoea – fast. IMODIUM® can help stop diarrhoea in just one hour, so you can start to feel better and get on with your day.
If you have severe diarrhoea, blood in your stools, fever or if symptoms persist for more than 48 hours consult your doctor and don't take IMODIUM®.
Frequent diarrhoea
Many people suffer from frequent acute diarrhoea. If you’re one of them, it’s good to know you’re not alone.
Diarrhoea & IBS
If you have sensitive bowels or you’ve been diagnosed with IBS, you can use IMODIUM® to treat your acute diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea & travelling
If you’re going to have a health issue on holiday, the chances are it’ll be diarrhoea. Find out why and how to avoid it.
Infectious diarrhoea
Infectious diarrhoea can be caused by food poisoning, travel bugs and rotavirus. Find out how to protect yourself.
How IMODIUM® works
It makes sense to treat acute diarrhoea straight away, so as to avoid losing too many fluids and salts and to help your body recover more quickly. IMODIUM® contains Loperamide, which works in harmony with your body to help restore its natural rhythm and renew the absorption of essential fluids.
IMODIUM® Original capsules can stop diarrhoea in one dose.
IMODIUM® IBS Relief helps take control of your medically diagnosed IBS diarrhoea.
IMODIUM® Instants dissolve instantly on your tongue, so they’re great for when you’re on the go.
IMODIUM® Dual Action Tablets not only helps stop diarrhoea, but also soothe painful cramps, bloating and wind.
Where to buy IMODIUM®
It’s easy to find IMODIUM® in supermarkets, chemists and many other shops. You don't need a prescription, so you can buy it over the counter as well as online.