Racecadotril

It is a lipophilic diesterified prodrug of the enkephalinase inhibitor thiorphan. It is the first and only enkephalinase inhibitor in its class.

Indications

Racecadotril is an oral enkephalinase inhibitor used in the treatment of acute diarrhoea. It prevents the degradation of endogenous opioids (enkephalins), thereby reducing hypersecretion of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen.

Dosage

Adult dose : 100mg 3 times daily for one week. Pediatric dose : Aged 2 months to 4 years with severe acute diarrhoea in 1.5mg/kg 3 times daily. Mode of treatment : First day : Immediate dose, then three separate doses in the day. Following days : Three doses divided in the day.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy, nursing.

Side Effects

Sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness and migraine.