Opium (By mouth)

Introduction

Opium (OH-pee-um)

Treats diarrhea.

Brand Name(s)

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed after use.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, brain disease, liver disease, or a lung disease such as emphysema.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have myxedema (thyroid problem) or bleeding in your stomach or intestines.
• This medicine may be habit-forming. If you feel that the medicine is not working as well, do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor for instructions.
• This medicine may cause constipation. This is more common if you use it for a long time. Ask your doctor if you should also use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Confusion, sever tiredness, trouble thinking clearly.
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Weakness or fainting.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Nausea, vomiting, or constipation.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088