What has been referenced as the poor man’s methadone, better
known as anti-diarrhea medications, has been making headlines recently for people
potentially abusing it as a means to get high. The ongoing opioid epidemic
could be a reason for the abuse, as addicts are seeking cheap alternatives to
get the same high or feeling they get from misusing opioids.
Why does this matter? Anti-diarrhea medications contain the
active ingredient loperamide and, when consumed in large amounts, can give the
user a high. But this high can come with deadly consequences. In the last year
alone, several deaths throughout the country have been linked to irregular
heartbeats caused by the misuse of these medications.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recently stated they
are aware of these cases and the intentional misuse and/or abuse of the
anti-diarrhea product loperamide to treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal or
produce euphoric effects and are looking to take necessary steps to stop this
from occurring. The Texas Poison Center Network has received at least 30 calls over
the past few years regarding this problem.
Although the anti-diarrhea drug is safe in doses used to
treat diarrhea, in large quantities it can cause serious side effects. Some of
those side effects include breathing and heart problems that can result in
death.
This is another reminder that all drugs, including
prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, can be dangerous when not used
as directed. If you or someone you know is dealing with a potential poisoning,
please contact the Texas Poison Center Network immediately at 1-800-222-1222. 
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