| Drug and Dosage | Use | Action | Assessment: Side Effects |
|---|
| Diphenoxylate HCl with atropine sulfate (Lomotil)—PO 5–10 mg 3–4 times daily | Diarrhea | Increases intestinal tone and decreases propulsive peristalsis | Rash; drowsiness, dizziness; depression; abdominal distention; headache, blurred vision; nausea |
| NURSING IMPLICATIONS: May potentiate action of barbiturates, opiates, and other depressants; closely observe clients receiving these drugs, and administer narcotic antagonists such as levallorphan tartrate (Lorfan), naloxone HCl (Narcan), and nalorphine HCl (Naline) as ordered; administer cautiously to clients with hepatic dysfunction—may precipitate hepatic coma |
| Kaolin with pectin (Kaopectate)—adults, PO 60–120 mL after each bowel movement (BM); children over 12, PO 60 mL; 6–12 yr, PO 30–60 mL; 3–6 yr, PO 15–30 mL after each BM | Diarrhea | Reported to absorb irritants and soothe | Granuloma of the stomach |
| NURSING IMPLICATIONS: Do not administer for more than 2 days, in presence of fever, or to children younger than 3 yr |
| Paregoric or camphorated opium tincture—PO 5–10 mL q2h, not more than 4 times daily | Diarrhea | Acts directly on intestinal smooth muscle to increase tone and decrease propulsive peristalsis | Occasional nausea; prolonged use may produce dependence |
| NURSING IMPLICATIONS: Contains approximately 1.6 mg morphine or 16 mg opium and is subject to federal narcotic regulations; administer with partial glass of water to facilitate passage into stomach; observe number and consistency of stools—discontinue drug as soon as diarrhea is controlled; keep in tight light-resistant bottles |