Loperamide dependence and abuse

Loperamide abuse and cardiotoxicity

With increasing restrictions and safety protocols implemented in prescribing opioids, there has been an increased incidence of recreational abuse of over-thecounter medications, including loperamide. Loperamide is a peripherally-acting μ-opioid receptor agonist in the gastrointestinal tract which, if taken at high doses, can cross the blood-brain barrier to produce euphoria and analgesia effects.

Loperamide Dependence: A Case Report

Background: Loperamide is used as an antidiarrheal drug and is available over-the-counter. It cannot pass the blood-brain barrier and it does not have a considerable abuse potential. It can lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmia.Case Report: Herein, we report a 35-year-old man with a 13-year history of abusing opioids who had undergone detoxification for four times during this period. He underwen...

High-dose loperamide abuse–associated ventricular arrhythmias

Charles W. O’Connell, MD, Amir A. Schricker, MD, MS, Aaron B. Schneir, MD, Imir G. Metushi, PhD, Ulrika Birgersdotter-Green, MD, Alicia B. Minns, MD From the Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, Department of Emergency Medicine, Veterans Association San Diego, La Jolla, California, Division of Cardiovascular...

Ventricular Tachycardia Triggered by Loperamide and Famotidine Abuse

A 32-year-old male developed recurrent ventricular tachycardia after taking mega doses of loperamide and famotidine in order to experience an opiate-like euphoric effect. He was taking up to 200 mg of loperamide and multiple doses of famotidine each day. He developed palpitations and syncope. Electrocardiography demonstrated ventricular tachycardia and QT interval prolongation (corrected QT int...

Drug Abuse , Addiction and Dependence