Description: Racecadotril is an oral enkephalinase inhibitor used for the treatment of acute diarrhea. It is a prodrug that is converted to its active metabolite, thiorphan, in the body. Unlike other antidiarrheal medications that slow down intestinal motility, Racecadotril has an antisecretory effect.

Indication: Racecadotril is indicated as a complementary symptomatic treatment for acute diarrhea in infants (over 3 months of age), children, and adults. It is used in conjunction with oral rehydration and other supportive measures, especially when these measures alone are not sufficient to control the clinical condition.

Mechanism of Action: Racecadotril’s active metabolite, thiorphan, works by inhibiting the enzyme neutral endopeptidase (also known as enkephalinase). This enzyme is located in the epithelium of the small intestine and is responsible for degrading endogenous enkephalins. By inhibiting this enzyme, Racecadotril prevents the breakdown of enkephalins, which are peptides that naturally have an anti-secretory effect. This action reduces the hypersecretion of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen, thereby reducing the symptoms of diarrhea without affecting intestinal motility.