Loperamide crystals

False-coloured scanning electron micrograph of loperamide crystals. An antimotility drug used for diarrhea, loperamide works by slowing down the movement of the intestine and reducing the speed at which the contents of the gut pass through. Food remains in the intestines for longer and water can be more effectively absorbed back into the body. This results in firmer stools that are passed less often. The crystal group measures about 150 microns. Wellcome Image Awards 2012.