What is Opium: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Opium overview

BRAND NAMES:

Generic Names:

  • Opium

Uses:

  • Treats diarrhea.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Analgesic, Antidiarrheal

Forms:

  • Liquid

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Opium used for?

Opium belongs to the narcotic analgesics drug class and is used to help treat diarrhea. It decreases fluid secretions in the intestines and slows the movement of bowel matter through the intestines, resulting in diarrhea. Opium is available to adults as a liquid solution.

What form(s) does Opium come in

  • Liquid

What are common Opium doses?

  • Bottle 118ML of 10 MG/ML(1%)

  • Bottle 473ML of 10 MG/ML(1%)

Common Opium prescriptions

  • Opium
    118ml of 10 mg/ml(1%) bottle

  • Opium
    473ml of 10 mg/ml(1%) bottle

How to take Opium

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • This medicine is not for long-term use.

  • Drink plenty of liquids to help avoid constipation.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • Drink plenty of liquids to help avoid constipation.

  • This medicine is not for long-term use.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

What to do if you miss a dose of Opium

  • 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.

  • Keep the bottle tightly closed after use.

  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Opium contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to opium. You should not use this medicine to treat diarrhea caused by poisoning. This medicine should not be used in children.

Opium warnings

  • This medicine may cause constipation, especially with long-term use. Ask your doctor if you should use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, brain disease, liver disease, or a lung disease such as emphysema.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have myxedema (thyroid problem) or bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

  • 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.

Opium interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, brain disease, liver disease, or a lung disease such as emphysema.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have myxedema (thyroid problem) or bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

  • 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.

  • This medicine may cause constipation, especially with long-term use. Ask your doctor if you should use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.

Opium side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Weakness or fainting.

  • Slow or shallow breathing

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Confusion, sever tiredness, trouble thinking clearly.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Nausea, vomiting, or constipation.

  • Mild skin rash or itching.

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