Chemical Information:

• English Name: Racecadotril

• Other Names: Acetorphan

• Molecular Formula: C21H23NO4S

• Molecular Weight: 385.47 g/mol

• CAS Number: 81110-73-8

Pharmacological Action:

1.     Antidiarrheal Activity:

o    Mechanism of Action: Racecadotril is a prodrug that acts by inhibiting the enzyme enkephalinase. This inhibition prevents the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins, which enhances their action in the gut. Enkephalins reduce the hypersecretion of water and electrolytes into the intestines, thereby alleviating diarrhea.

o    Effectiveness: It is particularly effective in treating acute diarrhea in both adults and children by decreasing stool output and duration of diarrhea.