Lupitidine

Lupitidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist that is used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Mechanism of Action

Lupitidine acts as an antagonist at the histamine H2 receptor, which is found on the basolateral membrane of the gastric parietal cell. By blocking this receptor, Lupitidine inhibits the action of histamine, a chemical that stimulates the secretion of stomach acid. This results in a reduction in the production of stomach acid.

Clinical Uses

Lupitidine is used in the treatment of conditions that are caused by excessive stomach acid. These include peptic ulcer disease, which is a condition characterized by the formation of ulcers in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus).

Side Effects

Like all medications, Lupitidine can cause side effects. These may include headache, dizziness, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as arrhythmia or pancytopenia, a condition characterized by a reduction in the number of red and white blood cells and platelets.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, Lupitidine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.

See Also

• Histamine H2 receptor antagonist
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease