Generic name: Atropine and diphenoxylate
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Vi-Atro?
Atropine affects the body in many different ways, such as reducing spasms in the bladder, stomach, and intestines.
Diphenoxylate is an antidiarrheal medication.
Atropine and diphenoxylate is a combination medicine used to treat diarrhea in adults and children who are at least 13 years old.
Atropine and diphenoxylate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to atropine or diphenoxylate, or if you have:
- obstructive jaundice (a bile duct disorder that may cause yellowing of your skin or eyes);
- diarrhea that is caused by bacteria; or
- diarrhea caused by using antibiotic medication.
Atropine and diphenoxylate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old. This medicine has not been proven safe or effective in children younger than 13 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- a blockage in your intestines;
- ulcerative colitis;
- asthma or other breathing problems;
- glaucoma;
- urination problems;
- liver or kidney disease;
- Down's syndrome; or
- if you are dehydrated.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
It may not be safe to breast-feed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.
How should I use Vi-Atro
Use Vi-Atro (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Drink plenty of liquids to keep from getting dehydrated while you have diarrhea. Your doctor may recommend an electrolyte supplement such as Gatorade or Pedialyte. Carefully follow all care instructions.
It may take up to 48 hours before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed. Call your doctor if you still have diarrhea after 10 days, or if you have a fever.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep this medicine where a child cannot reach it. An overdose of atropine and diphenoxylate can be fatal to a child.
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
Vi-Atro side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Some side effects may occur up to 30 hours after you take this medicine.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe constipation, stomach pain or bloating;
- ongoing or worsening diarrhea;
- diarrhea that is watery or bloody;
- severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back;
- fever, flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
- hallucinations, seizure;
- rapid breathing, weak or shallow breathing;
- fast heart rate; or
- dehydration symptoms--feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin.
Common side effects may include:
- drowsiness, dizziness, feeling restless;
- headache;
- numbness in your hands or feet;
- depression, not feeling well;
- confusion, feelings of extreme happiness;
- red or swollen gums;
- dry mouth, nose, or throat;
- nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite; or
- skin rash, dryness, or itching.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Vi-Atro?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise, in hot weather, or by not drinking enough fluids. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink.
Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.