Important Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication, especially for children.
Acetorphan Children 30mg Oral Sachet
Manufacturer: EPCI (Egyptian International Pharmaceutical Industries Co.)
Category: Antidiarrheal (Anti-secretory Agent)
Active Ingredient per Sachet:
- Racecadotril: 30 mg
Summary
Acetorphan is a medication for the symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea in children over 3 months old. Its active ingredient, Racecadotril, works by reducing the excessive secretion of water and electrolytes into the intestine, which is the primary cause of watery stools. A key advantage is that it does not slow down normal gut movement, making it a gentle and effective option to be used alongside essential oral rehydration therapy.
Mechanism of Action
Racecadotril is a prodrug that is rapidly hydrolyzed to its active metabolite, thiorphan. Thiorphan acts as a potent inhibitor of enkephalinase, a cell membrane enzyme. By preventing the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins, it reduces intestinal hypersecretion of water and electrolytes without affecting basal secretion or intestinal motility.
Indications
For the complementary symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea in infants (older than 3 months) and children, to be used as an adjunct to oral rehydration therapy (ORT).
Dosage
Important: Dosage is based on the child's body weight and must be prescribed by a physician.
- The standard dose is 1.5 mg per kg of body weight, given three times daily.
- Practical Example: For a child weighing between 13 kg and 27 kg, the usual dose is one 30 mg sachet, three times a day (morning, noon, night).
- Administration: The granules can be mixed with food, a small amount of water, or a baby's bottle. Mix well and give to the child immediately.
- Treatment should continue until two normal stools are passed, but should not exceed 7 days.
Warnings and Precautions
- Dehydration Risk: Acetorphan is not a substitute for oral rehydration. It is essential to give the child an oral rehydration solution (ORS) to replace lost fluids and salts.
- When to See a Doctor: Consult a doctor immediately if the diarrhea is accompanied by high fever, or if there is blood or pus in the stools, as this may indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.
- Age Limit: Should not be used in infants under 3 months of age.
- Other Conditions: Use with caution in children with kidney or liver problems, or in cases of chronic diarrhea.
Key Patient Advice for Caregivers
- The number one priority is preventing dehydration with an oral rehydration solution (ORS).
- This medication helps make the diarrhea less watery and shorter in duration.
- It does not cause the constipation that can be seen with some other anti-diarrhea medicines.
- If the child is also vomiting frequently, consult your doctor as the medicine may not be absorbed properly.
- Store below 30°C in a dry place and keep out of the reach of children.