Data on Loperamide Abuse and Misuse

Poison control centers are collecting data on loperamide abuse for the National Poison Data System, and the FDA is collecting and recording data through MedWatch. Loperamide exposures should be reported to both Poison Control and the FDA’s MedWatch.

National Poison Data System

According to available data, loperamide abuse is not widespread but is increasing. The National Poison Data System reported 11 deaths related to loperamide between 2012 and 2015, and 13 deaths between 2016 and 2017, as well as an increase in the intentional misuse of the drug.

State and local data are currently unavailable; however, studies on loperamide misuse have been conducted in California, New York, North Carolina, and Texas. For a list of published peer-review journal articles on loperamide abuse, visit the Healthcare Provider Resources page.