Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : JAPhA
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The epidemic of opioid prescription deaths in recent years resulted in the recent rescheduling of hydrocodone-containing products to restrict access to them. Opioid users have recognized that loperamide can ameliorate withdrawal symptoms and also produce euphoria in very high doses. This article discusses the potential for loperamide misuse and abuse and examines trends in the increasing number of published cases of loperamide toxicity. ⋯ Loperamide misuse and abuse is increasing in the United States, and pharmacists are encouraged to monitor and restrict their sales.