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Difenoxin/atropine (By mouth)

Atropine (AT-roe-peen), Difenoxin (dye-fen-OX-in)

Treats diarrhea.

Brand Name(s):

Motofen

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to difenoxin or atropine, or if you have jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) or diarrhea caused by an infection or antibiotics.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how difenoxin/atropine works. Tell your doctor if you are using medicine to treat depression, including MAO inhibitors.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
  • Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach or bowel problems (including ulcerative colitis).
  • This medicine may cause the following problems:
    • Dehydration
    • Severe stomach or bowel problems
    • Respiratory depression (severe breathing problem)
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
  • This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Extreme dizziness or weakness, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, seizures, and cold, clammy skin
  • Blue lips, fingernails, or skin, trouble breathing
  • Lightheadedness, drowsiness
  • Severe stomach pain, red or black stools

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Mild nausea, vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 4/23/2024

 
 
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