Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg Uses
Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg is primarily used for the symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea in children and adults. It is an antisecretory agent that helps reduce the excessive loss of water and electrolytes from the gut, thereby decreasing the frequency and volume of stools. This medicine is often recommended as an adjunct to oral rehydration salts (ORS) to manage dehydration and speed up recovery from acute episodes of diarrhea.
Common conditions where Racecadotril may be used include:
- Acute watery diarrhea
- Traveler's diarrhea
- Diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis
It is important to note that Racecadotril is not an antibiotic and does not treat the underlying cause of diarrhea if it is bacterial or parasitic. It only helps control the symptoms.
How Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg works
Racecadotril works by inhibiting the enzyme enkephalinase, which is responsible for the breakdown of naturally occurring enkephalins in the gut. Enkephalins are peptides that reduce intestinal secretion of water and electrolytes. By preventing their breakdown, Racecadotril enhances their antisecretory effect, thereby reducing the excessive fluid loss into the intestines. Unlike some other antidiarrheal medications, Racecadotril does not slow down intestinal motility, which means it does not cause constipation or paralytic ileus. It acts rapidly and is generally well tolerated.
Common side effects of Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg
Like all medicines, Racecadotril may cause some side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and transient. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Skin rash (rare)
If any side effect persists or worsens, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Expert advice for Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg
Here are some important points to keep in mind when using Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg:
- Always use this medicine under medical supervision, especially in children.
- It is crucial to maintain adequate fluid intake. Use oral rehydration salts (ORS) as advised by your doctor to prevent dehydration.
- Do not use Racecadotril if you have a known allergy to it or any of its ingredients.
- Avoid using this medicine if you have severe renal impairment or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not take this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
- If diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours, or if you notice blood in stools, fever, or signs of dehydration, seek medical advice immediately.
- Keep the sachet in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight.
Jan Aushadhi price and availability
Racecadotril Sachet IP 15mg is available at Jan Aushadhi Kendra (Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana) at an affordable price. The MRP for this product is ₹5.16 per sachet (1gm). This makes it a cost-effective generic alternative to more expensive branded versions. You can find this medicine at your nearest Jan Aushadhi store. Always check the packaging for the 'Jan Aushadhi' logo and verify the composition and strength with your pharmacist.
Safety note
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine. Do not self-medicate, especially for children, elderly, or pregnant women. Verify the composition, strength, and suitability of this medicine with a qualified healthcare professional. In case of any adverse reaction, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical help.