Racecadotril: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Racecadotril
Rx
Generic NameRacecadotril
Therapeutic ClassAntisecretory antidiarrheal (Enkephalinase inhibitor)
Common StrengthCapsule 100 mg; Sachet 10 mg / 30 mg
PregnancyUse with caution
Indications ▼
Acute Diarrhea (Adults): Symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea alongside oral rehydration therapy.
Acute Diarrhea (Children & Infants): Adjunct to oral rehydration solution (ORS) to reduce stool output and duration.
Traveler’s Diarrhea: May be used for symptomatic relief.
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Racecadotril is a prodrug converted to thiorphan, which inhibits enkephalinase. This prevents the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins in the intestinal mucosa, reducing hypersecretion of water and electrolytes without affecting intestinal motility.
Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption; peak plasma concentration within 1–2 hours. Metabolized to active metabolite (thiorphan). Eliminated primarily via urine and feces. Duration of antisecretory effect lasts several hours.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Population | Dose | Frequency / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 100 mg | Three times daily before meals until diarrhea resolves (usually ≤7 days) |
| Children | 1.5 mg/kg per dose | Three times daily; use sachet formulation; continue with ORS |
Note: Always combine with adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement (ORS). Not recommended for chronic diarrhea.
Side Effects ▼
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Rash or pruritus
Rare: angioedema or hypersensitivity reactions
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to racecadotril or any component
Chronic diarrhea
Diarrhea associated with high fever or blood in stool (requires medical evaluation)
Drug Interaction ▼
No significant drug interactions reported
Use caution with ACE inhibitors due to rare risk of angioedema
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Pregnancy: Limited human data; use only if benefit outweighs risk
Lactation: Insufficient data; caution advised
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: Effective antisecretory agent for acute diarrhea; reduces stool output and duration.
Advantage: Does not slow intestinal transit, minimizing risk of bacterial retention compared to antimotility agents like loperamide.
Limitation: Not suitable for invasive bacterial diarrhea or chronic conditions.
Monitoring: Assess hydration status; monitor for allergic reactions.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take before meals
Continue oral rehydration therapy
Seek medical advice if diarrhea persists beyond 7 days
Report rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty immediately
Storage & Handling ▼
Store below 30°C
Keep in original package, protected from moisture
Keep out of reach of children
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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