Side Effects of Lomotil (Lonox, Vi-Atro)

Lomotil (diphenoxylate hydrochloride; atropine sulfate) is a drug that slows down or stops diarrhea by slowing the contractions of the large intestine. Lomotil may be prescribed by a physician for the diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disease.

Lomotil should not be used to treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea or that resulting from infectious bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, or Shigella. Diarrhea from these causes should be ruled out before Lomotil is prescribed. Lomotil should also not be used by anyone who has liver disease or ulcerative colitis (due to a risk of a rare but serious condition called toxic megacolon).

Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

• blurred vision
• confusion
• difficult urination
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• drowsiness
• dryness of skin and mouth
• fever
• headache
• depression
• numbness of hands or feet
• skin rash or itching
• swelling of the gums

Call your doctor if any of the following side effects are severe and occur suddenly, since they may be signs of a more severe and dangerous problem with your bowels.

• bloating
• constipation
• loss of appetite
• severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting

• blurred vision (continuing) or changes in near vision
• drowsiness (severe)
• dryness of mouth, nose, and throat (severe)
• fast heartbeat
• shortness of breath or troubled breathing (severe)
• unusual excitement, nervousness, restlessness, or irritability
• unusual warmth, dryness, and flushing of the skin

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor. This information is meant only as a guideline. Always consult a physician or pharmacist for complete information about prescription medications.

Return to Medication Side Effects Index

_Source

_{Physicians' Desk Reference. "Lomotil." PDR Network, LLC 2009. 29 Dec 2009.}