Who Can use IMODIUM ^® to treat diarrhea?

Diarrhea sufferers have relied on IMODIUM^® for more than 40 years and are four times more likely to reach for it over other diarrhea treatments. Here we explain who it’s suitable for in treating diarrhea.

Adults

IMODIUM^® is suitable for adults and children over 12 years of age.

Children

IMODIUM^® is suitable for children over 12 years of age. It’s not recommended for younger children.

Children with diarrhea can become dehydrated more quickly than adults, so it’s a good idea to use an oral rehydration treatment, which you can find in soluble sachets.

Oral rehydration solutions replace lost fluids and salts and help prevent dehydration, but they don’t relieve the symptoms of diarrhea.

Here’s some extra advice for treating your child’s diarrhea:

Avoid sweetened fluids like soft drinks, energy drinks, sugar water and undiluted fruit juices. These all contain sugar that draws water into the intestine and can make diarrhea worse.
Giving your child solid foods, such as bread, cereal, rice, lean meat, yoghurt, fruit and vegetables, can help restore essential nutrients needed to fight infection.
Offer your child yoghurts that contain live or active cultures.
Keep your child’s bottom dry. Use care, tenderness and plenty of nappy cream when changing nappies, since it's easy for your baby’s bottom to become irritated.

If your child’s diarrhea lasts longer than 48 hours, or you’re otherwise concerned about their health, you should consult your doctor.

Pregnant & breastfeeding women

As with many medicines, IMODIUM^® is not recommended when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you’re pregnant or caring for a newborn, diarrhea can be the last thing you need. But, while you can’t use IMODIUM^®, you can try to look after yourself by drinking plenty of fluids, eating healthily and resting. If you’re concerned, it’s best to ask your GP for advice.