Diphenoxylate is used along with other measures, such as replacement of lost fluids and salts in the body, to treat diarrhea. Diphenoxylate should not be given to children younger than 2 years of age. Diphenoxylate is in a class of medications called antidiarrheal agents. It works by decreasing activity of the bowel.
Diphenoxylate comes as a tablet and solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken as needed up to 4 times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take diphenoxylate exactly as directed. Do not take more of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
The solution comes in a container with a special dropper for measuring the dose. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about how to measure a dose.
Your diarrhea symptoms should improve within 48 hours of treatment with diphenoxylate. Your doctor may tell you to decrease your dose as your symptoms improve. If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse within 10 days of treatment, call your doctor.
Diphenoxylate can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period of time than your doctor tells you to. Atropine has been added to diphenoxylate tablets to cause unpleasant effects if this medication is taken in higher doses than recommended.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Be sure to follow all dietary recommendations made by your doctor. Drink plenty of clear liquids to replace fluids lost while having diarrhea.
If you are taking scheduled doses of diphenoxylate, take the missed dose as soon you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
nausea
vomiting
loss of appetite
headache
restlessness
tiredness
confusion
changes in mood
dryness of the skin, nose, or mouth
numbness in arms and legs
decreased urination
ongoing pain that begins in the stomach area, but may spread to the back
abdominal bloating
fast heart beat
shortness of breath
hives
rash
itching
swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, lips, gums, mouth, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
difficulty swallowing or breathing
hoarseness
Diphenoxylate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom) and light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
dryness of the skin, nose, or mouth
changes in the size of pupils (black circles in the middle of the eyes)
uncontrollable eye movements
restlessness
flushing
fever
fast heart beat
decreased reflexes
excessive tiredness
difficulty breathing
loss of consciousness
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Diphenoxylate is a controlled substance. Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Revised - 11/15/2011
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.