Kathleen asked
Can you take Imodium and Nyquil together?
Answer
Imodium (loperamide) may be taken safely with Nyquil. There is no listed or reported interaction between the two drugs.
Imodium Information
Imodium (loperamide) is an diarrheal agent that is available over the counter. Imodium is the brand name, manufactured by Johnson and Johnson. It is also available generically as loperamide. It is available in multiple dosage forms including:
- Capsules
- Softgels
- Chews
- Liquid
All dosage forms of Imodium are generally well tolerated and safe to take with Nyquil.
Imodium works by slowing motility of the GI tract (i.e. slowing the transit time of fecal matter). It may also increase water absorption and the bulk of feces, helping to relieve diarrhea. Imodium is chemically related to opioids but does not have any pain relieving effects, even at high doses. There doesn't appear to be any issues with tolerance or dependence and can be used safely for extended periods of time.
Nyquil Information
Nyquil is a combination of three ingredients:
- Acetaminophen (pain reliever)
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Doxylamine (antihistamine)
Nyquil is well tolerated when taken as directed. All three ingredients contained in Nyquil do not interact with Imodium.
Imodium Nyquil Interaction Information
As mentioned, there is no interaction between Imodium products (any dosage form) and Nyquil. They may safely be taken together.
It is important to note that some antihistamines, like doxylamine (which is contained in Nyquil), can cause constipation in some people. Combining Imodium and Nyquil could potentially cause constipation, but would be considered very uncommon. You can feel comfortable dosing both medications together.
