Abstract

ADVERSE EFFECTS OF IMODIUM (LOPERAMIDE), THE MOST USED DRUG FOR TREATING DIARRHEA, EXAMINED ON ANTS AS BIOLOGICAL MODELS

Marie-Claire Cammaerts*

ABSTRACT

Imodium is a drug largely used for treating most cases of diarrhea. Its active substance is loperamide, an opiate derivative. Though few and not severe adverse effects due to its use are commonly reported, working on ants as models, we found that this drug impacted the food intake, locomotion, audacity, social relationships, cognition, learning and memory. It did not reduce the tactile perception. The ants did not adapt to its side effects and developed dependence on its consumption. The effect of Imodium rapidly vanished in 13 hours after weaning. In not easily available bibliography, it can be found that this drug has several non negligible side effects and can even lead to abuse, having then some opiate effect. Persons treated with Imodium (with loperamide) should be monitored as for their health, potential abuse and dependence. Also, the drug should be consumed during the shortest possible time period, and alternative should be then used.

Keywords: Abuse, Cognition, Dependence, Locomotion, Myrmica sabuleti, Opiate derivative Drug.