Why is this medication prescribed? 

Diphenoxylate and atropine is used to control diarrhea.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used? 

Diphenoxylate and atropine comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken as needed up to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.

The liquid comes in a container with a special dropper. Use the dropper to measure the exact dose carefully. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about how to measure a dose.

Diphenoxylate can be habit forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to. Stopping the medicine suddenly after taking it for a long time may cause withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal include muscle cramps, stomach cramps, unusual sweating, upset stomach and vomiting, and shaking or trembling.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor so that your response to diphenoxylate and atropine can be checked. Do not give this medicine to children under 2 years of age.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If this medicine does not control your diarrhea within 2 days or your diarrhea gets worse, call your doctor.

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