Mifentidine

Mifentidine

Mifentidine is a chemical compound that acts as a selective antagonist of the histamine H2 receptor. It has been studied for its potential use in treating conditions related to excessive gastric acid secretion, such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Pharmacology

Mifentidine works by blocking the action of histamine at the H2 receptors located on the parietal cells in the stomach lining. This inhibition reduces the production of gastric acid, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with acid-related disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Histamine is a biogenic amine that plays a crucial role in the regulation of gastric acid secretion. It binds to H2 receptors on the parietal cells, stimulating the production of gastric acid. Mifentidine, as an H2 receptor antagonist, competes with histamine for binding to these receptors, effectively reducing acid secretion.

Pharmacokinetics

Mifentidine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes hepatic metabolism. It is excreted primarily through the kidneys. The half-life of mifentidine allows for dosing that can be adjusted based on the severity of the condition being treated.

Clinical Uses

Mifentidine has been investigated for its potential in treating:

• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Side Effects

Common side effects of mifentidine may include headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or constipation. Rarely, it may cause more severe reactions such as arrhythmias or hypersensitivity reactions.

Research and Development

While mifentidine showed promise in early studies, its development was overshadowed by other H2 antagonists and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that became more popular due to their efficacy and safety profiles.

Also see

• Histamine H2 receptor
• H2 receptor antagonists
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Gastric acid secretion