I would not go from lope to subs, as someone mentioned, it has a long half life, but also builds up in your system so that it becomes nearly impossible to avoid precipitated withdrawals, which you want to avoid at all costs. I would switch to the shortest acting opioid possible, then wait until you are in withdrawals (moderate to severe) if not under the care of a Dr. There is a test online that Dr's use to gage what stage of withdrawals you are in, unfortunately I have lost it. It lists things like watering eyes, goosebumps, stomach discomfort, etc. The general idea online is usually at least 12 hrs after your last dose. When you are safely in moderate withdrawals, best to go to sleep & wake up in a decent state of WD, then you can safely take the subs. You should start the sub at a lower dose than you probably think you need, keep in mind it takes 3 days to get the full effects of sub (to "peak") in your system, and after that it doesn't take that much to keep you stabilized. The analgesic effects of sub are 20-40x stronger than that of morphine, it's actually used in surgical procedures in Europe (due to less respiratory depression making it safer) in opiate-naïve patients, the opiate it contains is that strong. That is what keeps the physical (and usually mental) cravings away with subs, the opiate it contains is quite substantial. To wean yourself off all opiates using subs, just take enough to keep WD at bay & when you feel OK, cut back a little, continue to do this & you will have very little pain associated with WD's. Subs are expensive in the US, if you have insurance or can afford them they are a excellent way to stay off recreational opiates. Subs are the most complicated & misunderstood medication however, I suggest you read up on them if you intend to use them while not under the care of a Dr. Feel free to PM me.
As for if loperamide increases tolerance, I think that question has already been answered. Yes, it is a long lasting opiate, it will affect your tolerance to other opiates.
