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DEMEROL vs IMODIUM A-D

Independent side-by-side comparison.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated August 19, 2026·How we rate

Rating

60/100
70/100

Pharmacy pays

$0.16 /mL
$0.05 /mL

Type

RX
OTC

Active ingredient

MEPERIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE
LOPERAMIDE HYDROCHLORIDE

Dosage forms

Injectable
Capsule, Solution, Tablet

Drug class

Opioid Agonist
Opioid Agonist

Boxed warning

Half-life

about 10.8 hours (range 9.1 to 14.4 hours)

Treats

Pain
Functional Colonic Diseases, Diarrhea, Bacillary Dysentery

Get imodium a-dhigher-rated option

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Where to buy

Buy over-the-counter from trusted retailers.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better-rated, Demerol or Imodium A-D?

By our independent rating, Imodium A-D scores higher — 3.5 vs 3.0 out of 5 for Demerol. Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data.

Which is cheaper, Demerol or Imodium A-D?

Imodium A-D costs pharmacies less to acquire — about $0.05 vs $0.16 per ml, per the CMS NADAC survey. That gap is in the pharmacy's cost of goods, not necessarily in what you pay: your price is set afterwards by your insurer and the pharmacy.

What is the difference between Demerol and Imodium A-D?

Demerol contains Meperidine Hydrochloride, while Imodium A-D contains Loperamide Hydrochloride — they have different active ingredients.

Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.