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Diphenoxylate and Atropine

Latest prescription information about Diphenoxylate and Atropine. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Diphenoxylate and Atropine
Pronunciation : AT-row-peen- dye-fen-OX-i-late
Therapeutic Classification : Antidiarrheals
ICD Code : Y53.6
Trade Name(s): 
International- Lomotil, Lonox.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This combination medication contains antidiarrheal (a narcotic) and anticholinergic agent, prescribed for diarrhea. Like other narcotics diphenoxylate doesn't have pain- relieving (analgesic) actions,but it reduces bowel activity.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 
Contraindicated in patients with jaundice, diarrhea associated with pseudomembranous enterocolitis, and hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
Adults: The recommended initial dosage is two tablets four times daily or 10 ml liquid four times daily (20 mg per day).
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food.
Warnings and Precautions : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of electrolyte imbalance, ulcerative colitis, liver or kidney impairment, Down syndrome, numbness, enlarged prostate, urinary obstruction, trouble in urinating, heart diseases, hiatal hernia, asthma, increased eye pressure, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* Do not become overheated in hot weather; otherwise it may lead to heatstroke.
Side Effects : 
Central Nervous system - Numbness of extremities, emotion, depression, uneasiness, confusion, sedation, drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, and headache.
Allergic Reactions - Anaphylaxis, fluid retention, hives, swelling of the gums, itching.
Gastrointestinal - Toxic megacolon, paralytic ileus, inflammation of pancreas, vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store the medication as directed by your physician.

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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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