Cisapride monohydrate

Cisapride Monohydrate is a gastroprokinetic agent, a type of drug that enhances gastrointestinal motility by increasing the frequency of contractions in the small intestine without stimulating gastric, biliary, or pancreatic secretions. It is used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and constipation.

Pharmacology

Cisapride Monohydrate works by acting as a serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonist. This action results in the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby improving motility. It does not have any anticholinergic or antidopaminergic effects, unlike other drugs in the same class.

Uses

Cisapride Monohydrate is primarily used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). It is also used to treat constipation and other conditions where a faster transit time through the gastrointestinal tract is beneficial.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Cisapride Monohydrate include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence. In rare cases, it can cause serious cardiac side effects, including QT interval prolongation and serious ventricular arrhythmias. Due to these potential risks, its use is restricted in many countries.

History

Cisapride Monohydrate was first approved for medical use in the United States in 1993. However, it was withdrawn from the market in 2000 due to concerns about serious cardiac side effects. It is still available in some countries, but its use is generally restricted to cases where other treatments have failed.

See Also

• Gastroprokinetic agent
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Serotonin 5-HT4 receptor