GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Hidrasec

Learn about Hidrasec racecadotril – an OTC oral antidiarrheal, its uses, mechanism, side effects, precautions, and drug interactions.

Racecadotril

Request sourcing

1
Pack/s

What is Racecadotril?

Hidrasec is an oral medication that contains the active ingredient racecadotril. It is marketed in the European Union as an over‑the‑counter (OTC) product. The specific strength and dosage form are not disclosed, but the preparation is intended for oral administration. Racecadotril belongs to the enkephalinase inhibitor class and is used primarily to manage acute diarrhea in adults and children, and provides symptomatic relief by reducing intestinal fluid loss.

What is Racecadotril used for?

Hidrasec is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhea, a common condition characterized by frequent, loose stools.

- Short‑term management of watery stools in adults. - Relief of diarrhea in children over the age specified on the label. - Adjunct to oral rehydration therapy to help maintain hydration. - Use in travelers experiencing sudden onset diarrhea. - May be considered for diarrhea associated with viral gastroenteritis.

What are the side effects of Racecadotril?

Adverse reactions to Hidrasec are generally uncommon, but users should be aware of possible effects that can range from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to rare allergic responses.

Common: - Nausea, occasional stomach discomfort, or a feeling of queasiness that usually resolves without treatment. - Mild headache, which is typically transient and does not require medical attention. - Increased gas production, flatulence, or a sense of abdominal bloating that may accompany the therapeutic effect.

Serious: - Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or urticaria that may indicate an allergic response. - Severe abdominal pain or cramping that persists beyond the expected duration of therapy. - Signs of systemic hypersensitivity, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing, which require immediate medical evaluation.

What precautions apply to Racecadotril?

Before using Hidrasec, certain precautionary measures should be considered to ensure safe and appropriate use.

- Do not use in individuals with known hypersensitivity to racecadotril or any excipients. - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment, as drug clearance may be reduced. - Avoid in children younger than the age specified on the product label, unless directed by a healthcare professional. - Maintain adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement; Hidrasec does not replace lost fluids. - Consult a physician if diarrhea persists longer than 48–72 hours, is bloody, or is accompanied by fever.

What does Racecadotril interact with?

Hidrasec may interact with other medicines, and certain combinations should be avoided or used with careful monitoring.

Avoid: - Concomitant use with potent opioid analgesics that act centrally, as overlapping mechanisms could alter gut motility. - Co‑administration with drugs that significantly affect renal function, such as certain diuretics, without medical supervision.

Use with caution: - Antacids or medications that alter gastric pH, which might affect the absorption of racecadotril. - Other antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide) to avoid excessive reduction of intestinal motility. - Herbal supplements containing opioid‑like compounds, which could potentiate the drug’s effect.

Frequently asked questions

What is the active ingredient in Hidrasec?+
The active ingredient in Hidrasec is racecadotril, an enkephalinase inhibitor used to treat acute diarrhea.
Is Hidrasec available without a prescription?+
Yes, Hidrasec is classified as an over‑the‑counter (OTC) medication in the European Union.
How does racecadotril reduce diarrhea?+
Racecadotril inhibits the enzyme enkephalinase, increasing endogenous enkephalins in the gut, which reduces intestinal fluid secretion without slowing motility.
Can Hidrasec be used in children?+
Hidrasec may be used in children above the age specified on the product label, but a healthcare professional should be consulted for younger children.
Should I continue oral rehydration while taking Hidrasec?+
Yes, oral rehydration solutions should be continued to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, as Hidrasec does not provide rehydration.
What are common side effects of Hidrasec?+
Common side effects include nausea, mild stomach discomfort, headache, and increased gas or abdominal bloating.
When should I stop taking Hidrasec and seek medical help?+
Stop using Hidrasec and seek medical attention if diarrhea lasts more than 48–72 hours, is bloody, accompanied by fever, or if you develop severe abdominal pain or allergic reactions.
Is it safe to take Hidrasec with other antidiarrheal drugs?+
Using Hidrasec together with other antidiarrheal agents such as loperamide should be done with caution to avoid excessive reduction of gut motility.
Can renal impairment affect the use of Hidrasec?+
Patients with severe renal impairment should use Hidrasec with caution, as reduced kidney function may affect drug clearance.
Does racecadotril interact with opioid pain medications?+
Concurrent use of racecadotril with potent central opioid analgesics is generally avoided because of potential overlapping effects on gut function.
What should I avoid while taking Hidrasec?+
Avoid taking strong opioid analgesics and drugs that markedly impair renal function without medical guidance while using Hidrasec.
Is there a known pregnancy category for racecadotril?+
The pregnancy safety category for racecadotril has not been definitively established; pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before use.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Racecadotril
Route
Oral Use
Manufacturer
Bioprojet Pharma
Origin
EU

Related products