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Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief - 6 Capsules

Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief - 6 Capsules

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  • ✔️ Relieves acute diarrhoea with loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg
  • ✔️ Reduces stool frequency within one to three hours
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Convenient 6-capsule pack ideal for home or travel
  • ✔️ Slows gut motility to restore normal bowel function

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What Are Diarrhoea Relief Capsules and How Do They Help?

 

Diarrhoea is something most of us deal with at some point — and when it strikes, you want it sorted quickly. Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief 6 Capsules are an over-the-counter medicine containing loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg, a well-established active ingredient used to treat acute, short-term diarrhoea in adults and young people aged 12 and over. Whether it's been triggered by a stomach bug, a change in diet, or travel, these diarrhoea relief capsules are designed to help slow things down and restore normal bowel function. You can browse our full range of treatments in our diarrhoea collection if you'd like to compare options.

Acute diarrhoea — defined by the NHS as passing three or more loose or watery stools per day — can lead to dehydration and discomfort if left unmanaged. This small, convenient pack of six capsules is ideal for keeping in your medicine cabinet or travel bag for those unexpected moments.

 

How Does Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Work in the Body?

 

Loperamide hydrochloride works by acting on mu-opioid receptors in the wall of the large intestine. It doesn't enter the central nervous system in meaningful amounts at therapeutic doses, so it won't make you drowsy. Here's what happens once you take a capsule:

  • Loperamide binds to opioid receptors in the gut wall, reducing the speed at which the intestinal muscles contract.
  • Slower gut motility means the intestinal contents move more slowly, giving the bowel more time to absorb water and electrolytes.
  • Stool consistency improves and the urge to go becomes less frequent.
  • Anal sphincter tone may also increase slightly, helping to reduce urgency.

The result is firmer stools and fewer trips to the bathroom — usually within one to three hours of the first dose for most people.

 

Who Is Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Suitable For?

 

These capsules are suitable for most adults and young people experiencing acute, uncomplicated diarrhoea. That said, they're not right for everyone, so it's worth checking the list below before you take them.

This product is generally appropriate for:

  • Adults aged 18 and over with acute, short-term diarrhoea
  • Young people aged 12 to 17 (under adult supervision)
  • Travellers experiencing traveller's diarrhoea
  • People whose diarrhoea has been triggered by a mild stomach bug or dietary change

It is not suitable for children under 12, and you should seek medical advice before using it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a chronic bowel condition such as inflammatory bowel disease.

 

How Does Max Remedies Compare to Other Diarrhoea Treatments?

 

Feature Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief 6 Capsules Oral Rehydration Sachets (e.g. Dioralyte)
Active ingredient Loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg Glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride
Primary action Slows gut motility, reduces stool frequency Replaces lost fluids and electrolytes
Suitable for children under 12? No Yes (with guidance)
Best used for Acute diarrhoea symptom control Rehydration alongside antidiarrhoeal treatment

 

How Should You Store Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Capsules?

 

Store these capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing related digestive discomfort such as bloating or cramping, you might find our IBS and cramps collection useful alongside this product.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief - 6 Capsules specifications
Treatment category Antidiarrhoeal
Active ingredient Loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg
Mechanism of action Mu-opioid receptor agonist; reduces gut motility and increases fluid absorption
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Pack size 6 capsules
Strength 2 mg per capsule
UK classification General Sale List (GSL) / Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Antidiarrhoeal — opioid receptor agonist
Preparation Hard capsule
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief - 6 Capsules

 

What Is Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief and What Is It Used For?

 

Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief 6 Capsules contain loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg per capsule. They are used to treat acute diarrhoea — sudden-onset, short-term loose or watery stools — in adults and young people aged 12 and over. The NHS describes acute diarrhoea as typically lasting fewer than four weeks, with most cases resolving within a few days. This product helps manage symptoms during that period by slowing the bowel and reducing stool frequency.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

 

Before taking these capsules, read the following carefully. Some people should not use loperamide, and others may need to take extra care.

Do not use this product if you:

  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Have bloody or black, tarry stools
  • Have a high fever alongside diarrhoea
  • Have been diagnosed with acute ulcerative colitis or pseudomembranous colitis
  • Are allergic to loperamide hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the capsule
  • Have a condition where slowing gut motility would be harmful (e.g. paralytic ileus)

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have liver disease
  • Have HIV/AIDS with diarrhoea (risk of toxic megacolon)
  • Are taking medicines that may interact with loperamide

Known drug interactions:

  • Quinidine — may increase loperamide blood levels
  • Ritonavir and other HIV protease inhibitors — may raise loperamide plasma concentrations
  • Itraconazole — may increase loperamide exposure
  • Oral medicines generally — loperamide may slow their absorption due to reduced gut motility

 

How Should You Use Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Capsules?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack or as directed by your pharmacist. Swallow capsules whole with a glass of water. It's also important to drink plenty of fluids while you have diarrhoea to avoid dehydration — the NHS recommends water, diluted squash, or oral rehydration solutions.

  1. Take 2 capsules (4 mg) as your starting dose.
  2. After each subsequent loose stool, take 1 capsule (2 mg).
  3. Do not exceed 4 capsules (8 mg) in any 24-hour period.
  4. If diarrhoea has not improved within 48 hours, stop taking the capsules and seek medical advice.
Indication Age Group Starting Dose Subsequent Dose Maximum Daily Dose
Acute diarrhoea Adults & young people 12+ 2 capsules (4 mg) 1 capsule (2 mg) after each loose stool 4 capsules (8 mg)
Children under 12 Under 12 Not suitable — seek medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

 

Like all medicines, loperamide can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you notice anything unusual, stop taking the capsules and speak to a pharmacist or GP. You might also find it helpful to explore our sickness and nausea collection if you're experiencing nausea alongside diarrhoea.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Constipation
  • Flatulence (wind)
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal cramping or discomfort

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Dizziness or drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal bloating

Stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash).

 

How Should You Store Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Capsules?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight.
  • Keep the capsules in their original packaging until use.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused capsules to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you're travelling and want to be prepared for a range of health concerns, our travel health collection includes a range of products to keep you covered on the go.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief capsules online in the UK?

You can order Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief 6 Capsules directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is required as this is an over-the-counter medicine. Simply add it to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option for fast, discreet dispatch.

How do diarrhoea relief capsules work in the body?

Loperamide hydrochloride, the active ingredient in these capsules, binds to mu-opioid receptors in the gut wall. This slows intestinal contractions, giving the bowel more time to absorb water and electrolytes from the stool. The result is firmer stools and a reduced urge to go to the toilet, usually within one to three hours of the first dose.

How do I take Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief step by step?

Start with 2 capsules (4 mg) as your initial dose, then take 1 capsule (2 mg) after each subsequent loose stool. Do not exceed 4 capsules (8 mg) in any 24-hour period. Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated.

What is the maximum dose of loperamide I can take per day?

The maximum dose for adults and young people aged 12 and over is 8 mg (4 capsules) in any 24-hour period when using an over-the-counter product. Exceeding this dose can cause serious cardiac side effects and is not safe. Always follow the pack instructions and do not take more than directed.

How quickly do these diarrhoea relief capsules start working?

Most people notice a reduction in stool frequency within one to three hours of taking the first dose. The speed of response can vary depending on the cause and severity of your diarrhoea. If there is no improvement after 48 hours, stop taking the capsules and speak to your GP or pharmacist.

What are the side effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief capsules?

Common side effects include constipation, flatulence, nausea, headache, and abdominal cramping. Less commonly, you may experience dizziness, dry mouth, or a skin rash. If you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing — stop use immediately and call 999.

Who should not take Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief capsules?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, people with bloody or black stools, those with a high fever alongside diarrhoea, or anyone with acute ulcerative colitis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with liver disease should speak to a doctor before use. Always check the full list of contraindications on the pack.

Can I take these capsules if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take loperamide during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without first speaking to your doctor or midwife. The NHS advises caution with loperamide in pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. Your healthcare provider can recommend the safest option for managing diarrhoea during this time.

What happens if I miss a dose of loperamide?

Unlike medicines taken on a fixed schedule, loperamide is taken as needed — specifically after each loose stool. If you forget to take a capsule after a loose stool, simply take it when you remember, provided you have not already reached the maximum daily dose of 8 mg. Do not double up doses.

Can I take Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief with other medicines?

Loperamide can interact with certain medicines, including quinidine, ritonavir, and itraconazole, which may increase loperamide levels in the blood. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking before starting this product. If you are unsure, our pharmacists at Cured Pharmacy are happy to advise.

How long can I use Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief for?

This product is intended for short-term use only. If your diarrhoea has not improved within 48 hours of starting treatment, you should stop taking the capsules and seek medical advice. Prolonged or recurring diarrhoea may indicate an underlying condition that requires investigation by a GP.

What are the alternatives to Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief capsules?

Other loperamide-containing products such as Imodium Original capsules or Boots Diarrhoea Relief are widely available alternatives. Oral rehydration sachets like Dioralyte are also recommended alongside antidiarrhoeal treatment to replace lost fluids and salts. You can explore further options in our diarrhoea collection.

Is loperamide safe for people with IBS-related diarrhoea?

Loperamide is sometimes used to manage diarrhoea-predominant IBS (IBS-D), but you should speak to your GP before using it regularly for this purpose. It is licensed for acute diarrhoea as an OTC product, and longer-term use for IBS should be supervised by a healthcare professional. Our IBS and cramps collection includes other products that may also help.

Should I drink more fluids when taking diarrhoea relief capsules?

Yes — staying hydrated is essential when you have diarrhoea, even when taking loperamide. The NHS recommends drinking plenty of water, diluted squash, or oral rehydration solutions to replace fluids and electrolytes lost through loose stools. Dehydration can become serious quickly, particularly in older adults and young people.

What does the latest research say about loperamide for acute diarrhoea?

Loperamide has been used clinically for decades and remains one of the most studied and widely recommended OTC antidiarrhoeal agents. Current NHS and NICE guidance supports its use for short-term acute diarrhoea in adults. Research continues to confirm its efficacy in reducing stool frequency and duration of symptoms when used as directed.

How Should You Use Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Capsules?

Swallow each capsule whole with a full glass of water — do not chew or crush them. It's important to keep drinking fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can develop quickly when you have diarrhoea.

What Is the Correct Dose of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

The correct dose depends on your age. This product is only suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over. Children under 12 should not take loperamide capsules — speak to a pharmacist or GP for an age-appropriate alternative.

When Is the Best Time to Use Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

Take the first dose as soon as you notice the onset of acute diarrhoea — there is no specific time of day that is better than another. The key is to take the initial 2-capsule dose promptly and then follow up with 1 capsule after each subsequent loose stool, staying within the daily maximum. Taking it early in the course of symptoms tends to give the best results.

How Long Can You Use Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief For?

This product is intended for short-term use only — a maximum of 48 hours for acute diarrhoea. If your symptoms persist beyond this point, or if you develop a fever, blood in your stools, or severe abdominal pain, you should stop taking the capsules and consult your GP promptly. Prolonged diarrhoea may indicate an underlying condition that needs proper investigation.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

Most people tolerate loperamide well, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own once you stop taking the capsules.

  • Constipation
  • Flatulence (wind)
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Abdominal cramping or discomfort

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

Less commonly, some people may experience the following side effects. If any of these bother you or do not go away, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Dizziness or drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Indigestion

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

Serious side effects are rare when loperamide is used at the recommended OTC dose, but they can occur. Taking more than the recommended dose significantly increases the risk of serious cardiac events, including abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). This is why it is critical never to exceed 8 mg (4 capsules) per day without medical supervision.

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience chest pain, an irregular or fast heartbeat, fainting, or difficulty breathing after taking this product. A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — characterised by swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing — is also a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief?

For mild side effects such as constipation or nausea, stopping the capsules is usually sufficient — symptoms should resolve within a short time. Make sure you are drinking enough fluids, as dehydration can worsen some side effects. If you are concerned about a side effect or it is severe, contact your pharmacist or GP for guidance. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Max Remedies Diarrhoea Relief Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Loperamide can interact with certain medicines, which may increase the amount of loperamide in your bloodstream and raise the risk of side effects. Known interactions include quinidine (used for heart conditions), ritonavir and other HIV protease inhibitors, and itraconazole (an antifungal). Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you are taking before starting this product. If you are managing multiple health conditions, a quick check with your pharmacist can help you avoid unwanted interactions.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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