AD 10mg Sachet

Introduction

AD is a medication that contains the active ingredient Racecadotril. It is available both as a generic medication and under the brand name AD. This medication is primarily used to treat diarrhea by reducing the amount of water and electrolytes lost from the body.

Uses

AD is prescribed for the treatment of acute diarrhea in adults and children over 3 months of age. It can be particularly helpful in cases of viral or bacterial diarrhea, as well as diarrhea caused by certain medications or food poisoning.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of AD for adults and children over 12 years of age is one sachet (100 mg) taken three times a day. For children between 3 months and 12 years of age, the dosage is calculated based on body weight. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the information on the packaging.

To administer AD, dissolve the contents of one sachet in a glass of water and stir until fully dissolved. It can be taken with or without food. Drink the entire solution to ensure the proper dosage.

Mechanism of Action

Racecadotril, the active ingredient in AD, works by inhibiting an enzyme called enkephalinase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down certain molecules in the intestine that regulate fluid and electrolyte transport. By inhibiting enkephalinase, Racecadotril helps to maintain a balance of water and electrolytes in the intestine, reducing the severity and duration of diarrhea.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include abdominal pain, nausea, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience any of the following, seek medical attention immediately: severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Drug Interactions

inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. AD may interact with certain medications, such as opioids or certain antidepressants. These interactions can affect the effectiveness or safety of the medications involved. Your healthcare professional will be able to advise you on any potential drug interactions.

Precautions

Before starting treatment with AD, inform your healthcare professional if you have any known allergies, medical conditions, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This medication may not be suitable for everyone, and your healthcare professional will assess the benefits and risks for your specific situation.

AD should not be used in cases of diarrhea with blood or fever, as these may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Storage

AD should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the medication out of reach of children. Do not use AD if the sachet is damaged or the expiration date has passed. Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the medication.

Patient Tips

• stay hydrated while taking AD. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or oral rehydration solutions, to replace the fluids lost during diarrhea.
• If your symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting treatment or if they worsen, contact your healthcare professional for further evaluation.
• Follow the dosage instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage without consulting your healthcare professional.
• If you have any questions or concerns about AD, speak to your healthcare professional for further guidance.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Racecadotril (International database) (Drugs.com) [Accessed 21 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Matheson AJ, Noble S. Racecadotril. Drugs. 2000 Apr;59(4):829-35; discussion 836-7. doi: 10.2165/00003495-200059040-00010. [Accessed 17 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• Fischbach W, Andresen V, Eberlin M, Mueck T, Layer P. A Comprehensive Comparison of the Efficacy and Tolerability of Racecadotril with Other Treatments of Acute Diarrhea in Adults. Front Med (Lausanne). 2016 Oct 14;3:44. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2016.00044. eCollection 2016. [Accessed 5 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• Liang Y, Zhang L, Zeng L, Gordon M, Wen J. Racecadotril for acute diarrhoea in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019 Dec 19;12(12):CD009359. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009359.pub2. [Accessed 28 Jun. 2024] Available at: