Introduction
Pedidot is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Racecadotril. It is available in the form of a powder and is used for the treatment of certain gastrointestinal conditions.
Uses
Pedidot is primarily prescribed to manage acute diarrhea in adults and children over the age of three months. It helps reduce the frequency and duration of diarrhea episodes, allowing the body to recover more quickly.
Dosage and Administration
The recommended dosage of Pedidot may vary depending on the age of the patient and the severity of the condition. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Generally, the powder should be dissolved in a small amount of water and taken orally.
For adults and children over 15 years of age, the usual dosage is one sachet (100 mg) of Pedidot, three times a day. For children between 3 months and 15 years of age, the dosage is determined based on the child’s weight. Your healthcare professional will provide you with the appropriate dosage instructions.
Mechanism of Action
Pedidot works by inhibiting an enzyme called enkephalinase, which is responsible for the breakdown of enkephalins. Enkephalins are natural substances in the body that help regulate the movement of fluid in the intestines. By inhibiting enkephalinase, Pedidot helps to reduce the excessive fluid loss associated with diarrhea.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, or bloating. These side effects are usually temporary and subside on their own.
In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Blood in the stool
- Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Drug Interactions
inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Pedidot, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Some common drug interactions include:
- ACE inhibitors (used to treat high blood pressure)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Certain antibiotics
Always consult your healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medications while taking Pedidot.
Precautions
Before using Pedidot, discuss your medical history and any existing conditions with your healthcare professional. They will assess whether this medication is suitable for you and if any precautions need to be taken.
Pedidot should not be used in the following situations:
- Known hypersensitivity to Racecadotril or any other ingredients in the product
- Severe liver disease
Additionally, avoid alcohol while taking Pedidot, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Storage
Pedidot should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the medication if the sachet is damaged or if it has passed its expiration date. Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the medication.
Patient Tips
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your treatment with Pedidot:
- Take the medication as directed by your healthcare professional. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Replace the lost fluids during episodes of diarrhea.
- If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional.
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:
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