Dotril
Dotril Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Dotril is a brand name. Its generic name is Racecadotril.
Dotril Introduction
Dotril is a generic drug used to treat diarrhea and helps reduce fluid loss in the intestine and helps reduce dehydration in adults and children. It belongs to the class of medications called 'spasmolytics' and works by blocking the absorption of sodium by the gastrointestinal tract, which causes increased water absorption and slower movements of food through the intestine.Uses for Dotril
Dotril is mainly used to treat diarrhoea in adults and children over one year of age. This medication is also used to manage mild-to-moderate inflammatory bowel disorders such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. It also helps to reduce fluid loss in the intestine and helps reduce dehydration.Mechanism of Action
Dotril works by blocking the effects of certain neurotransmitters in the gastrointestinal tract. It also inhibits the absorption of sodium from the small intestine, which results in increased water absorption. As a result, stools are softer and movement of the stools is slowed down. This helps reduce the diarrhoea caused by infections, food intolerances, or other causes.How Long Does It Take to Work
Dotril usually starts working within 30 minutes after it's taken. The full effect of the drug typically lasts up to 6 hours, after which it starts to wear off gradually.Absorption
Dotril is readily and swiftly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration and reaches its maximal concentration in the bloodstream within 2 hours. The bioavailability of racecadotril is 97.5%.Route of Elimination
Dotril is rapidly converted by the liver before being eliminated primarily in the urine.Dosage
Dotril should be taken three times a day in divided doses. The dosage usually depends on the age, health condition, and response to treatment of the patient. It is recommended to begin treatment with a low dosage which may then be adjusted depending on the response to the drug.- For Adults: The recommended dose is 3 tablets (30 mg) each time, up to three times a day
- For Children: The recommended dose for children aged 1 year and above is 1 tablet (10 mg) each time, up to three times a day
Administration
Dotril should be taken orally, with liquid such as water, milk, or juice. It should be taken before meals, unless prescribed otherwise by the doctor.Side Effect
Common side effects of racecadotril include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and headache. If these side effects persist or worsen, a doctor should be consulted for further medical advice and treatment.Toxicity
Dotril is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, overdose of racecadotril can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening side effects and should be avoided.Precautions
Dotril should be used with caution in people with a history of kidney disease, as it may cause further damage to the kidneys. It should also be used with caution in people with high blood pressure or any other cardiovascular disorder as it may cause an increase in blood pressure.Interaction
Dotril may interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, anticoagulants, antihistamines, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications while taking racecadotril.Disease Interaction
Dotril may not be suitable for people with certain diseases or conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before taking racecadotril.Drug Interaction
Dotril may interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, anticoagulants, antihistamines, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications while taking racecadotril.Food Interactions
Dotril may interact with certain foods or beverages, such as alcohol. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before consuming any food or beverage while taking racecadotril.Pregnancy Use
Dotril should be used with caution in pregnant women. It should not be used during the first trimester of pregnancy, and must be discussed with a doctor before taking it.Lactation Use
Dotril should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it is not known whether the drug passes into breast milk.Acute Overdose
If an overdose of racecadotril is suspected, contact the Poison Control Center immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.Contraindication
Dotril is contraindicated in people with allergies to the active ingredient or other ingredients in the drug, people with kidney or liver disease, or people with high blood pressure or any other cardiovascular disorder.Use Direction
Dotril should be taken as directed by a doctor or pharmacist. The dosage may vary according to the age, health condition, and response to treatment of the patient. It is important to take this medication with a full glass of liquid such as water, milk, or juice.Storage Condition
Dotril should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. It is also important to keep this medication out of reach of children.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of racecadotril is 16 L/kg.Half Life
The half-life of racecadotril is approximately 2.5 hours.Clearance
The clearance of racecadotril is 110 mL/min/kg.Here you find in details version of Dotril
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Dotril
.What is Dotril?
Dotril is an antidiarrheal drug, commonly known as Hidrasec, which helps to treat gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea caused by gastroenteritis. It is a relatively new medication, patented in 1987, and is effective in both adults and children.
How does Dotril work?
Dotril works by inhibiting the action of enzymes responsible for the production of water and electrolyte secretions in the small intestine. This helps to reduce the amount of water lost through the bowel and therefore decreases the frequency of diarrheal episodes.
Is Dotril safe for all ages?
Dotril is approved for use in adults and children over the age of 1 year. It is considered safe and well-tolerated, but it is important to speak to a doctor before giving it to infants or young children.
Is Dotril available over the counter?
No, Dotril is a prescription medication and not available for purchase without a prescription from a doctor.
What are the side effects of Dotril?
The most common side effects of Dotril are dizziness, headache, nausea and abdominal pain. There have also been some reports of allergic reactions and skin rashes. If any of these side effects occur, speak to your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Dotril?
Avoid taking antacids or certain vitamins and minerals (such as iron, zinc and magnesium) for at least two hours before or after taking Dotril as these can interact with the medication.
How often should I take Dotril?
The usual dose of Dotril is one capsule three times daily. It is important to take it at regular intervals as directed by your doctor.
Is there a generic version of Dotril?
No, there is no available generic version of Dotril.
Can I take Dotril while pregnant?
It is not recommended to take Dotril during pregnancy as it has not been studied enough to guarantee its safety in pregnant women. Speak to your doctor about the best course of action.
Can I take Dotril when breastfeeding?
Dotril is excreted in breast milk, so it is not recommended to take it while breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for advice on the best course of action.
Can I take Dotril with other medications?
Dotril can interact with certain other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. This includes any over-the-counter medications, vitamin supplements, herbal remedies and other prescription medications.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Dotril?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Dotril as this can increase the risk of side effects. If you do drink alcohol, it is important to speak to your doctor for advice.
Is Dotril addictive?
No, Dotril is not known to be addictive.
What is the dosage of Dotril
The standard dose of Dotril is one capsule three times daily. Do not exceed this dose, and always follow the instructions of your doctor.
What happens if I take an overdose of Dotril?
If you take an overdose of Dotril, seek medical attention immediately. Overdoses of Dotril can lead to serious side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and difficulty breathing.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Dotril?
If you miss a dose of Dotril, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take double doses of the medication to make up for a forgotten dose.
Is Dotril suitable for long-term use?
Yes, Dotril can be used for long-term management of diarrheal episodes. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about it, as long-term use of Dotril may lead to certain side effects.
What are the possible interactions of Dotril?
Dotril may interact with certain medications, such as antacids, antibiotics, certain vitamins and minerals, and some herbal supplements. Speak to your doctor before taking Dotril alongside any other medication.
Is Dotril safe for children?
Yes, Dotril is approved for use in children over the age of 1 year. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before giving Dotril to an infant or young child.
Can Dotril be used to treat Crohn's disease?
No, Dotril is not approved for the treatment of Crohn's disease. Speak to your doctor for advice on the best course of action.
How long does Dotril take to work?
Dotril can begin to work within 30 minutes of administration. However, the full effects may take up to an hour or more to be felt.
Can I take Dotril with other antidiarrheal medications?
It is not recommended to take Dotril with other antidiarrheal medications as this can lead to an increase in side effects or the effectiveness of the treatment being reduced. Speak to your doctor for advice on the best course of action.
What is the recommended storage conditions for Dotril?
Dotril should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. It should not be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, nor should it be exposed to extreme changes in temperature.
Can Dotril be taken with food?
Yes, Dotril can be taken with food. In fact, it is recommended to take it after meals to reduce the risk of side effects such as nausea.
Is Dotril available in in other forms?
No, Dotril is only available in capsule form.
Who manufactures Dotril?
Dotril is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline.
What are the inactive ingredients in Dotril?
The inactive ingredients in Dotril include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate, sodium starch glycolate, and polysorbate 80.
What is the cost of Dotril?
The cost of Dotril will vary depending on your insurance plan and where you purchase the medication. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Can Dotril cause a rash?
Yes, in rare cases Dotril may cause a rash. If you experience any skin rashes while taking Dotril, speak to your doctor.
Is Dotril used to treat irritable bowel syndrome?
No, Dotril is not approved for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Can Dotril cause constipation?
Yes, Dotril can cause constipation in rare cases. If you experience constipation while taking Dotril, speak to your doctor.
Can Dotril be taken with antiemetics?
Yes, Dotril can be taken with antiemetics, such as prochlorperazine and promethazine, as long as your doctor has approved it.
How long does Dotril stay in the body?
The effects of Dotril typically last for up to 8 hours, but the medication is metabolized and excreted quickly, so it is usually undetectable in the body within 24 hours.
How quickly does Dotril start to work?
The effects of Dotril usually begin to be felt within 30 minutes of administration. The full effects may take up to 1 hour or more to be felt.
What are the contraindications for Dotril?
Dotril is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment, as well as in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of the other ingredients in the medication.
Can Dotril be used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases?
No, Dotril is not approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Is Dotril safe for people with kidney disease?
Yes, Dotril is usually safe for people with kidney disease. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before using it, as it can interact with certain medications.
Does Dotril interact with other medications?
Yes, Dotril can interact with certain medications, such as certain antibiotics, antacids, vitamins and minerals, and herbal supplements. Speak to your doctor before taking Dotril alongside any other medication.
Can Dotril be taken with probiotics?
Yes, Dotril can generally be taken with probiotics. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to ensure it is safe to do so.
Is Dotril gluten free?
Yes, Dotril is gluten free.
Can Dotril be used to treat viral gastroenteritis?
No, Dotril is not approved for the treatment of viral gastroenteritis.
How long should I take Dotril for?
Dotril should be taken for as long as your doctor prescribes it. It is not recommended to stop taking Dotril without speaking to a doctor first, as this can lead to an increased risk of relapse.
What is the dosage for Dotril in children?
The recommended dose of Dotril for children aged 1-5 years is 6 mg three times daily. For children aged 6-12 years, the recommended dose is 12 mg three times daily. Always follow the instructions of your doctor when administering Dotril to a child.
Is Dotril an antibiotic?
No, Dotril is not an antibiotic.
Can Dotril be used to treat gastroenteritis caused by bacterial infection?
Yes, Dotril can help to reduce the symptoms of gastroenteritis caused by bacteria, but it will not cure the infection itself. Antibiotics may be required to treat the underlying bacterial infection.
Does Dotril interact with other antidiarrheal medications?
Yes, Dotril can interact with certain other antidiarrheal medications, such as loperamide and diphenoxylate/atropine. Speak to your doctor before taking Dotril alongside any other antidiarrheal medication.