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opium preparation

opium preparation

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opium preparation

Pronunciation: OH pee um PREP a RAY tion

Brand: Opium Deodorized, Paregoric

What is the most important information I should know about opium preparation?

Do not use this medicine if the safety seal on the cap is broken or missing.

Opium preparation should not be given to treat diarrhea that is caused by poisoning (until the toxin is no longer in the digestive tract).

What is opium preparation?

Opium preparation is an opioid, sometimes called a narcotic.

Opium is derived from the seed pod of a poppy plant. It works by increasing smooth muscle tone and decreasing fluid secretions in the intestines. This slows the movement of bowel matter through the intestines.

Opium preparation (sometimes called "opium tincture") is used to treat diarrhea.

Opium preparation may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking opium preparation?


You should not use opium preparation if you are allergic to morphine, or if you have:


To make sure opium preparation is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • asthma, emphysema, or other breathing problem;
  • stomach bleeding;
  • a head injury, brain tumor;
  • a seizure;
  • a stroke;
  • cirrhosis or other liver disease;
  • underactive thyroid;
  • enlarged prostate, urination problems; or
  • alcoholism or drug addiction.


Opium can pass into breast milk and may affect the nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

How should I take opium preparation?

This medication is usually taken 1 to 4 times daily to treat diarrhea. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Opium preparation can slow or stop your breathing. Never use opium preparation in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed.

Opium preparation may be habit-forming when used over a long period of time. Never share opium preparation with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away opium preparation is against the law.

Each opium preparation contains a different amount of opium. If you switch from using one opium preparation to using another, your dose will not be the same. Some opium preparations are much stronger than others, and taking too much opium may cause serious harm.

Do not stop using opium preparation suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to safely stop using this medicine.



What happens if I miss a dose?


What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An opium preparation overdose can be fatal, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.

Overdose symptoms may include slow breathing and heart rate, severe drowsiness, muscle weakness, cold and clammy skin, and fainting.

What should I avoid while taking opium preparation?

Do not drink alcohol. Dangerous side effects or death could occur.

Avoid using any other anti-diarrhea medications that your doctor has not prescribed.


What are the possible side effects of opium preparation?


Stop using opium preparation and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • weak or shallow breathing;
  • confusion; or
  • feelings of extreme happiness or sadness.

Serious side effects may be more likely in older adults and those who are malnourished or debilitated.

Common side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting;
  • constipation;
  • dizziness, drowsiness; or
  • itching.


What other drugs will affect opium preparation?

Taking opium preparation with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous side effects or death. Ask your doctor before taking a sleeping pill, opioid pain medicine, prescription cough medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

Other drugs may interact with opium preparation, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about opium preparation.



Copyright 1996-2020 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 4.01. Revision date: 12/12/2017.
