Medication information

Kaopectate Extra Strength 250mg/5mL suspension

This medication is typically used to relieve diarrhea. Its effects can be noticed within a few hours.

Instructions

This medication is typically used 4 times a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Generally, it is used only as needed.

To be effective, this product must be mixed well. Shake the bottle several times before using the medication. To avoid constipation, this product should only be used for a short period of time.

If you have diarrhea, you should drink extra fluids such as water or clear broth. Your pharmacist can also recommend a suitable preparation to replace fluids. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

  • it may give stool an unusual colour.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Do not allow it to freeze. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Additional Information

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.