Signs of Loperamide Addiction
Taking loperamide at very high doses is what brings about the loperamide high we talk about. Most people have a misconception that since the drug is available over the counter (OTC) that it cannot be addictive. This is untrue as, in fact, high doses and continued usage of loperamide is likely to result in a dependence on the drug similar to what happens with opioids. While some people consume the drug intentionally to get ‘high’, others who get addicted to it started by taking them as prescription drugs. Whatever the case, there are a number of ways to ascertain if your use of loperamide has gone overboard. And if it is now tending towards abuse and addiction. These signs are discussed shortly, try and look closely at them.
• If you experience symptoms or effects similar to those of opioid withdrawal. Some of them are irritability, nausea, anxiety, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, excessive sweating, muscle pain, and cramps.
• If you find it difficult to discontinue the medication, no matter the strength of your resolve.
• If you still take the drug long after your symptoms had cleared.
• When you start craving for higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects you’re used to.
• If you spend a large part of your day thinking about loperamide, and how to acquire it.
• If you decide to switch to other substitutes such as opioids to get the same feeling.
Clearly, if you begin to get signs that suggest you can’t do without loperamide, it is an indication that you are already addicted to the drug. You would like to seek help as soon as possible. [6]
