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09/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2024 16:47

Imodium for Dogs: This Common Over the Counter Medication Can Help Manage Diarrhea

Key takeaways:

  • Imodium (loperamide, Difixn) is not FDA approved for dogs but is sometimes used to manage diarrhea that isn't caused by an infection.

  • Common side effects of Imodium include drooling, constipation, bloating, and sedation.

  • Imodium is not safe for dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation. Ask your veterinarian if your dog could have this mutation.

THEPALMER/E+ via Getty Images

If your dog is struggling with diarrhea, you may look to over-the-counter medications to give them some relief.

Imodium (loperamide, Difixn) may help with some cases of canine diarrhea. But don't give it without guidance from your veterinarian.

Learn more about Imodium for dogs and how it can control dog diarrhea.

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Imodium for dogs at a glance

Common names

Loperamide (Imodium, Difixn)

What it treats

Diarrhea not caused by an infection

How it comes (forms)

Oral tablets, capsules, and liquid

Common side effects

Drooling, constipation, bloating, sedation

Average cost

$7-$12 for 12 capsules

What is Imodium for dogs, and how does it work?

Imodium is an over-the-counter medication that is FDA approved for use in humans with diarrhea. Veterinarians sometimes recommend off-label use of loperamide in dogs with noninfectious diarrhea.

Loperamide - the active ingredient in Imodium - binds to opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. By binding to these receptors, Imodium slows movement in the intestines. As a result, your dog digests more food and absorbs more water, which helps stop diarrhea.

What is Imodium used for in dogs?

Imodium is used for dogs who have diarrhea that isn't caused by an infection. A more common use of Imodium in dogs is management of diarrhea from chemotherapy.

Imodium may also be used for diarrhea due to stress, anxiety, food intolerances, and some inflammatory conditions.

Is Imodium safe for dogs?

Imodium is safe for most dogs when they're given the appropriate dosage. However, Imodium is dangerous for dogs with the MDR1 mutation. This mutation makes a dog resistant to several medications, including Imodium. Dogs with the MDR1 mutation can become overly sedated if they're given loperamide.

What is the dosage of Imodium for dogs, and how is it given?

There is no FDA-approved dosage of Imodium for dogs. However, veterinarians generally follow these guidelines:

  • Dogs weighing 10 lbs to 25 lbs: 1 mg given by mouth every 8 hours

  • Dogs weighing 26 lbs to 40 lbs: 2 mg given by mouth every 8 hours

  • Dogs weighing 41 lbs to 60 lbs: 4 mg given by mouth every 8 hours

Don't give Imodium for more than 3 days.

Some veterinarians may use an alternate dosage of 0.10 mg/kg to 0.20 mg/kg by mouth every 8 to 12 hours. Always talk to your vet before giving your dog Imodium to determine the best dosage.

Keep in mind that these dosages may not be safe for dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation.

What are the common side effects of Imodium in dogs?

The most common side effects of Imodium in dogs include:

What are the most serious risks of Imodium for dogs?

Dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation are the most at risk for serious side effects. They may have extreme sedation, a drunken gait (ataxia), and excessive drooling with just one dose.

Does Imodium interact with any other dog medications?

Imodium can potentially interact with several other dog medications, including:

Make sure your veterinarian is aware of any prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements your dog takes.

What should you do if your dog misses a dose of Imodium?

If you forget to give your dog their dose of Imodium, give the missed dose. Then adjust the dosing schedule to match your veterinarian's recommendations. In most cases, this will be every 8 hours for up to 3 days.

The bottom line

Imodium isn't FDA approved for use in dogs. But a veterinarian may prescribe it to dogs with noninfectious diarrhea.

Talk to your vet before giving your dog Imodium. Even though it's available over the counter, a human dosage can be toxic for dogs. It can also be dangerous for dogs with the MDR1 gene mutation.

Why trust our experts?

Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH has been involved in veterinary medicine for over a decade. Her clinical practice has mostly revolved around providing care to shelter animals, low-cost services to underprivileged families, and wellness care for pet parents.
Edited by:
Renée Fabian, MA
Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She's worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.
Reviewed by:
Ghanasyam Bey, DVM
Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.
View All References (3)
expand_more

Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center. (n.d.). Drug sensitivity: MDR1.

Goldman Pharmaceutical Group Inc. (2019). Difixn - loperamide hydrochloride tablet [package insert].

Marks, S. L. (2013). Diarrhea. Canine and Feline Gastroenterology.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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