Dexecadotril
Dexecadotril
Dexecadotril is a pharmaceutical compound used primarily as an antidiarrheal agent. It is a prodrug of racecadotril, which is an enkephalinase inhibitor. Dexecadotril is used to treat acute diarrhea in adults and children by reducing the secretion of water and electrolytes into the intestine.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
Dexecadotril is metabolized in the body to its active form, racecadotril. Racecadotril works by inhibiting the enzyme enkephalinase, which is responsible for the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins. Enkephalins are peptides that modulate the secretion of water and electrolytes in the gut. By inhibiting their breakdown, racecadotril increases the levels of enkephalins, leading to reduced intestinal secretion and thus alleviating diarrhea.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
Dexecadotril is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea in adults and children over the age of three months. It is not recommended for chronic diarrhea or diarrhea caused by bacterial infections that require antibiotic treatment.
Dosage and Administration[edit | edit source]
The dosage of dexecadotril varies depending on the age and weight of the patient. It is typically administered orally, and the treatment duration is usually short-term, until the symptoms of diarrhea resolve.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of dexecadotril include headache, skin rash, and nausea. Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions such as angioedema or anaphylaxis.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Dexecadotril, through its active metabolite racecadotril, acts by inhibiting the enzyme enkephalinase. This inhibition prevents the degradation of enkephalins, which are natural peptides that reduce the secretion of water and electrolytes in the intestines. This action helps to decrease the volume and frequency of diarrhea.
Research and Development[edit | edit source]
Dexecadotril was developed as a prodrug to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of racecadotril. Research has focused on its efficacy in various populations, including children and the elderly, as well as its safety profile compared to other antidiarrheal agents.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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