Opium is a narcotic 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" or "paregoric") is used to treat diarrhea. Opium preparation is sometimes given with other anti-diarrhea medication such as kaolin and pectic (Kaopectate).

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

You should not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a narcotic medicine, if you are having an asthma attack, or if you have a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus.

Before you take an opium preparation, tell your doctor if you have bloody diarrhea, diarrhea with fever, diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics, inflammatory bowel disease, toxic megacolon, asthma or other breathing disorder, liver or kidney disease, a seizure disorder, enlarged prostate, urination problems, or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking this medication. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with opium preparation. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.

This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Many drugs can interact with opium preparation. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.

Never take this medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

You should not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a narcotic medicine (examples include codeine, methadone, morphine, Oxycontin, Darvocet, Percocet, Vicodin, Lortab, and many others). You should also not take opium preparation if you are having an asthma attack or if you have a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before you take an opium preparation, tell your doctor if you have:

• bloody diarrhea, or diarrhea with fever;

• diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics;

• inflammatory bowel disease, toxic megacolon;

• asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;

• liver or kidney disease;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• enlarged prostate or urination problems; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

FDA pregnancy category C. Taking opium preparation during pregnancy may cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Opium can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may be more like to have side effects of this medication.

Opium preparation may be habit-forming when used over a long period of time. This medication should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Opium preparation should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.