Difenoxin and Atropine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Motofen

Category

• Antidiarrheal, antiperistaltic

Description

Difenoxin and atropine (dye-fen-OX-in and A-troe-peen) combination medicine is used along with other measures to treat severe diarrhea in adults. Difenoxin helps stop diarrhea by slowing down the movements of the intestines.

Since difenoxin is chemically related to some narcotics, it may be habit-forming if taken in doses that are larger than prescribed. To help prevent possible abuse, atropine (an anticholinergic) has been added. If higher-than-normal doses of the combination are taken, the atropine will cause unpleasant effects, making it unlikely that such doses will be taken again.

Difenoxin and atropine combination medicine should not be used in children. Children with diarrhea should be given solutions of carbohydrates (sugars) and electrolytes (important salts) to replace the water and important salts that are lost from the body during diarrhea.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Oral
• Tablets (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Motofen

† Not commercially available in Canada.