Enceron

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Enceron

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Enceron

Property Description
Active ingredient Ifenprodil (as Ifenprodil tartrate)
Form Tablet (oral)
Pharmacological class NMDA receptor antagonist, Vasodilator
Common use Circulatory disorders, Neuroprotection
Origin Synthetic, Piperidine derivative

What Type of Medicine is Enceron?

Enceron is a prescription-only, synthetic pharmaceutical compound primarily featuring the active substance Ifenprodil, which is classified chemically as a piperidine derivative. It belongs to the dual pharmacological class of selective NMDA receptor antagonists and alpha-adrenergic antagonists. The drug exhibits a high affinity for the GluN2B subunit of the NMDA receptor, differentiating it from less selective antagonists. Ifenprodil possesses high selectivity for the NR2B subunit, reflecting a focused effect on specific nerve cell activity. Its non-competitive action provides a specific neuroprotective capability, an effect recognized across its therapeutic domain.

What is the Composition and Form?

The active ingredient is consistently delivered as the salt, Ifenprodil tartrate, which is the chemically stable form used for pharmaceutical manufacturing. The standard dosage form of Enceron is the tablet, intended for systemic absorption via the oral administration route. While Ifenprodil defines the drug's therapeutic activity, its use in the tartrate salt form, which is a synthetic organic compound, ensures the active ingredient is effectively delivered. Ifenprodil is also found in generic versions and other brands, such as Cerocral and Cerestat in various regions, maintaining the same core active ingredient and dual pharmacological classification.

What is Enceron's General Therapeutic Purpose?

The general therapeutic purpose of Enceron is to stabilize neurological function and promote improved regional circulation. The drug's dual action is leveraged for supportive care in conditions characterized by restricted blood flow, where the vasodilator effect helps to increase overall circulation. Simultaneously, the selective NMDA antagonism provides a protective effect against neuronal stress. Ifenprodil functions as a neuroprotective agent with the ability to influence cerebral blood flow. The medication is designed to support both vascular and neurological health, particularly in the domain of circulatory disorders.

What side effects are possible with Enceron?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Ifenprodil (Enceron) is organized by regulatory bodies to communicate documented adverse reactions and necessary safety restrictions. Adverse reactions are classified according to the body systems they may affect, based on observation and documentation in official prescribing information.


Documented Adverse Reactions by System-Organ Class

Adverse effects listed in official labeling are commonly grouped into the following physiological categories:

  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Reactions such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort have been reported.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Documented effects include dizziness and headache.
  • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Reactions like rash and other hypersensitivity manifestations are noted.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The regulatory documentation highlights specific, clinically important adverse events that require caution. Serious adverse reactions that have been documented include shock and anaphylactoid reactions.

Safety guidelines establish specific populations and conditions where the medication is formally restricted:

  • Hepatic Impairment: The medication is contraindicated for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment, a restriction based on the drug’s metabolism and risk profile.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Ifenprodil should not be administered to women who are pregnant, who may become pregnant, or who are breastfeeding, as per official prescribing information.

This structure ensures clear communication of both commonly observed adverse effects and necessary, high-level safety limitations documented by government health authorities.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory documents define the overdose profile for Enceron primarily through mandated emergency actions. Overdose risk is referenced in the context of accidentally taking more than the prescribed dose.


Documented Manifestations and Emergency Action

Clinical Manifestations No specific, named symptoms or clinical manifestations of severe overdose are formally documented in the readily available regulatory prescribing information. No specific physiological systems are explicitly listed as affected in the overdose section.

Immediate Medical Requirements The regulatory labeling requires that immediate medical attention be sought in case of accidental overdose. You must consult with your doctor or pharmacist immediately if the prescribed dose is exceeded, and you must get medical attention if any symptoms occur. This procedural focus underscores the necessity of urgent professional assessment upon exposure to an excess dose.

Overdose Management and Supportive Care Management of an overdose situation is formally directed to be symptomatic and supportive treatment. Regulatory information explicitly advises to Do NOT induce vomiting, while procedural guidance may include rinsing the mouth with water. The official labeling confirms that no specific antidote is known or currently listed for Ifenprodil. No specific requirements for hospital monitoring or observation are explicitly detailed in the overdose section.

Therapeutic Uses of Enceron

What Enceron Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The medication is commonly used for specific conditions and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. It is relevant in contexts where additional symptomatic support is needed to maintain functional stability.

Primary Therapeutic Uses

Enceron is commonly used for managing symptoms associated with the sequelae of cerebral infarction (ischemic stroke) or cerebral hemorrhage, and for easing symptoms related to peripheral arterial obliterative disease. This supportive role is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for patients with a history of stroke. The therapeutic domain includes its use for managing dizziness associated with the aftereffects of cerebral infarction or cerebral bleeding. This supports a patient's general well-being when symptoms are more noticeable, contributing to easing the overall symptom load.

Symptom Management and Functional Support

The medication helps address symptom clusters that include chronic and persistent dizziness or vertigo. This supportive care may assist with maintaining functional stability and contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods. It is further applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required for conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, playing a role in managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain.


Quick Fact: Supportive Management for Chronic Dizziness The medicine is commonly used to help with persistent dizziness and vertigo, providing symptomatic support that helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.

Regulatory References

  1. Japanese Drug Information Sheet

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Enceron?

This section outlines the officially documented population eligibility and restrictions for Enceron (Ifenprodil tartrate), based strictly on governmental regulatory labeling. Eligibility is defined by absolute contraindications, conditions requiring caution, and age restrictions.


Official Eligibility Status

Classification Status Eligible Groups
Established Use Allowed Adults (Use is established in this age group)
Contraindicated Must Not Use Known Hypersensitivity to Ifenprodil; Suspected Unstopped Intracranial Bleeding
Caution Required Conditional Use Patients with Hypotension or Palpitation; Those in the Acute Phase of Cerebral Stroke
Use Not Established Not Recommended Pediatric Patients (Children and adolescents)

Specific Population Restrictions

Use is not established in pediatric patients, implying standard eligibility is restricted to adults. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding are classified as requiring conditional use and must consult a prescriber before use. Furthermore, caution is mandatory for individuals in the acute phase of cerebral stroke (infarction or hemorrhage) and those with pre-existing cardiovascular instabilities like low blood pressure (hypotension) or palpitation.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The interaction profile of Enceron (Ifenprodil) is structured around pharmacodynamic and metabolic considerations documented in regulatory sources, rather than explicit contraindications or timing rules.

Pharmacodynamic Interaction Risk

Co-administration with other antihypertensive agents may lead to an additive hypotensive effect due to the drug's alpha-adrenergic blocking and vasodilator properties. Official labeling notes this potential for augmented blood pressure-lowering effects with products in this class. Caution is also noted regarding other NMDA receptor antagonists (e.g., ketamine, memantine), as co-administration may potentiate the effects of Enceron.

Metabolic Pathway Interaction Potential

Ifenprodil is a substrate for the Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 enzyme. Therefore, concurrent use with a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole) may increase the plasma concentration of Ifenprodil, while a strong inducer may decrease it. These pharmacokinetic interactions can alter the drug's exposure.

Population-Specific Interaction Notes

Interaction effects may be more pronounced or significant in the elderly population due to potential changes in drug clearance. Caution is also advised for patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or renal/hepatic impairment, as drug interaction consequences, particularly related to blood pressure, may be heightened.

Regulatory documentation does not specify absolute contraindicated combinations for co-administration or mandatory timing separation rules for administering Enceron with food, alcohol, or supplements.

Mechanism of Action

Selective Modulation of Excitatory Nerve Signaling

This mechanistic domain involves the drug's action as an Allosteric Antagonist on the NMDA receptor, specifically targeting those containing the GluN2B subunit. By binding to this site, the drug selectively limits the excessive flow of Ca^2+ into nerve cells, a crucial step in suppressing excitotoxicity (neuronal overstimulation) and modulating cellular integrity.


Control of Vascular Smooth Muscle Tone

The drug exerts a complementary effect by acting as an Antagonist on alpha-1 (alpha1) adrenergic receptors, which are primarily located on blood vessel walls. This action blocks the signals that promote contraction, initiating a cascade that leads to the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. This reduction in peripheral vascular resistance physiologically results in vasodilation and an increase in regional blood flow.


Integration of Dual Mechanistic Actions

Ifenprodil employs a dual-action mechanism where its selective inhibition of overactive CNS signaling and its modulation of vascular tone operate concurrently. This synergy allows the mechanism to integrate modulation of cellular integrity and adjustment of tissue perfusion, contributing to the overall modulation of cellular and circulatory physiological responses.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Enceron is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

The usage of Enceron (Ifenprodil tartrate) is defined by official regulatory instructions, which govern the administration route, precise dosage, frequency, and relationship to mealtimes.


Official Administration Protocol

The medicine is designed exclusively for oral administration using the available tablet formulation, which typically comes in strengths such as 10 mg or 20 mg of the active ingredient.

Feature Official Labeled Guideline
Standard Adult Dose A single dose of 20 mg of the active ingredient.
Dosing Frequency The single dose is administered three times per day, resulting in a total daily dose of 60 mg.
Timing Constraint Each dose must be taken after each meal (postprandial administration).
Duration Pattern The use is sustained and non-cyclic, and the medicine should not be discontinued unless instructed by a healthcare provider.

Procedural Administration Rules

These official guidelines establish the procedural structure for long-term use, ensuring consistent patient intake. The fixed three-times-daily frequency is directly tied to the requirement for postprandial administration. For managing adherence, specific instructions exist for a missed dose: if a scheduled dose is missed, it should be taken when remembered, but only if it is not close to the next scheduled dose. Regulatory information strictly advises never to take two doses simultaneously to compensate for a missed dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Enceron


Research Evidence for Managing Sequelae of Stroke

Research exploring the use of Ifenprodil, the active ingredient in Enceron, was evaluated in individuals who have experienced a cerebral infarction (ischemic stroke) or a cerebral hemorrhage and are being assessed for chronic or persistent symptoms. Studies conducted for this indication include Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and high-quality observational studies. The outcomes examined included changes measured on neurological deficit scales, patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort, and the monitoring of physiological strain related to blood flow within the brain. Research explored the relationship between the compound's known properties and the measures of blood flow within the cerebral circulation.

The evidence base for this indication is characterized by a mix of study types, typically assigned a moderate level of consistency. A limitation is that some evidence is derived from older, regionally conducted clinical trials. Follow-up durations were limited; therefore, evidence is limited regarding the long-term effects on functional outcomes.


Studies Evaluating Chronic Dizziness and Vertigo Symptoms

Ifenprodil was also evaluated in research specifically exploring its use for persistent dizziness and vertigo that developed after a cerebral event. These studies include comparative trials that were conducted during periods of increased symptom activity and applied in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns. The research aimed to describe how symptoms changed over defined observation periods.

Studies monitored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as measures on subjective scales of dizziness severity, and outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level. Findings indicate patterns related to patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. The research provides context on how this medicine was studied in situations involving symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain.


Research Gaps and Remaining Uncertainties

The data for this targeted symptomatic use is still emerging, and evidence quality varies across studies, leading to a low to moderate level of certainty. Long-term effects are not fully established because follow-up durations were limited in key trials. Additionally, comparative evidence related to specific subgroups, such as patients with significant comorbidities, is often lacking. The research does not provide a complete picture of observed outcomes related to changes in daily functioning across all patient types.

Key Studies & References Japanese Drug Information Sheet for Ifenprodil

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Enceron (FAQ)


Q: Is Enceron the same kind of drug as [Similar Drug Name]?

According to official product information, Enceron has a dual mechanism of action that sets it apart. It is classified as a selective NMDA receptor antagonist and an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist. This means it works by addressing nerve cell overstimulation and relaxing the smooth muscle in blood vessel walls.


Q: How quickly can a person expect Enceron to start working?

Regulatory documentation confirms the medicine is intended to produce a systemic effect. While a specific time-to-onset is not typically detailed in general product information, studies examining its use evaluated changes over short-term observation periods.


Q: Is Enceron safe to take with common vitamins and supplements?

Official information on drug interactions focuses on specific classes of medications, such as antihypertensives and other products that affect the CYP3A4 enzyme. Regulatory documents do not specify any absolute restricted combinations or required timing rules when taking the medicine with common vitamins and supplements.


Q: Is it true that Enceron can cause [Vague Side Effect A]?

Regulatory materials document adverse reactions like nausea, dizziness, headache, and rash. Severe hepatic impairment (severe liver issues) is listed as a condition that prevents the medicine from being used (a contraindication), but specific severe organ damage is not listed as a common adverse reaction in official safety documents.


Q: How long do people typically need to take Enceron?

According to official administration guidelines, the medicine is intended for sustained and non-cyclic use. This means the medicine is typically taken continuously for an extended period. Discontinuation of the medicine requires the instruction of a healthcare provider.


Q: Does Enceron interact with alcohol consumption?

Official interaction information addresses co-administration with other medicines, such as antihypertensives. However, regulatory documents do not specify any absolute restrictions or mandatory separation rules regarding the use of alcohol with this medication.


Q: Is it common for people to experience changes in sleep with Enceron?

The official safety profile lists documented adverse effects on the nervous system, which include dizziness and headache. Changes in sleep are not listed among the commonly reported adverse reactions in the official regulatory documentation.


Q: What is the purpose of the black box warning on Enceron's packaging?

Regulatory materials document the possibility of serious adverse reactions, including shock and anaphylactoid reactions (severe allergic reactions). This clinically important safety information is often highlighted on the medicine’s labeling to ensure awareness of potential risks.


Q: Can Enceron affect blood pressure readings?

The medicine's mechanism includes acting as an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist, which results in the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle (vasodilation). Official documentation notes the potential for an additive hypotensive effect (lowering blood pressure) when taken with other antihypertensive medicines.


Q: What happens if Enceron is taken with a medication for pain relief?

Official interaction documentation specifically details risks with antihypertensive agents and other NMDA receptor antagonists. The general regulatory profile does not explicitly detail the interaction with common pain relief classes.


Q: Are there any major food restrictions while using Enceron?

The official administration guidelines instruct the medicine to be taken after each meal (postprandial administration). Beyond this administration timing rule, regulatory documents do not specify any other absolute food restrictions or mandatory separation rules.


Q: Is Enceron a controlled substance?

The medicine is classified as a prescription-only drug. Based on official government documentation, the active ingredient, Ifenprodil, is not designated as a controlled substance.


Q: Are there known weight changes associated with Enceron use?

Official regulatory documentation organizes adverse reactions by the body systems they affect. Weight changes are not specified among the commonly reported adverse effects of the medicine.


Q: What is the risk of dependence or withdrawal with Enceron?

The official regulatory information communicates known risks and warnings based on clinical data. Dependence or withdrawal phenomena are not listed among the documented risks or special warnings for this medicine.


Q: Can Enceron affect a person's ability to drive?

Official safety documents list Nervous System Disorders like dizziness and headache as possible adverse effects. Regulatory warnings indicate that patients should assess how the medicine affects them, as these effects may potentially influence the ability to operate machinery or drive.


Q: How long does Enceron stay in your system after stopping?

The time the active ingredient remains in the system is determined by its half-life, which is a pharmacokinetic property described in official documents. The half-life of Ifenprodil is reported to be approximately 5 to 7 hours.


Q: Does Enceron have a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS)?

According to the responsible regulatory agency, the medicine does not require a specific Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. REMS programs are special safety measures required for some medicines with serious safety concerns.


Q: Are there any specific laboratory tests required before or during Enceron use?

Official regulatory documentation that outlines warnings and precautions does not specify mandatory baseline or ongoing laboratory tests required for the use of this medicine.


Q: Can Enceron cause problems with vision?

Official safety information lists documented adverse reactions by system-organ class. Vision problems are not listed among the commonly reported adverse reactions of the medicine.


Q: Are there known interactions between Enceron and herbal products?

Official drug interaction information focuses on certain classes of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Interactions with specific herbal products are not explicitly detailed in the general regulatory profile.


Q: What should be done in case of a suspected overdose of Enceron?

Official documentation states that in the event of a suspected overdose, contact with a poison control center or emergency services is the prescribed action.


Q: Does taking Enceron affect fertility?

Regulatory information indicates the medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Specific data on the effects of the active ingredient on human fertility are often not fully available or established in official documents.


Q: Why is there a specific warning about mixing Enceron with grapefruit?

This warning is due to how the medicine is processed in the body. Ifenprodil is a substrate for the CYP3A4 enzyme. Grapefruit is known to inhibit this enzyme, meaning mixing them could potentially increase the plasma concentration of the medicine in the body.


Q: What if I'm taking Enceron and need surgery?

Official safety information requires caution for patients in the acute phase of cerebral stroke and lists suspected unstopped intracranial bleeding as a contraindication. While no general guidance for elective surgery is provided, it is standard practice for patients to inform the surgical team about the use of all medicines.


Q: What are the inactive ingredients in Enceron?

The inactive ingredients, also known as excipients, are listed in the official prescribing information for the specific tablet formulation of the medicine.


Q: What regulatory body approved Enceron?

The medicine has been approved for its uses following the evaluation of clinical data by a governmental regulatory body, such as the PMDA/MHLW (Japan), which is responsible for reviewing and authorizing its marketing.


Q: Can Enceron be crushed or split?

The official administration guidelines specify that the medicine is supplied as a tablet intended for oral administration. Unless the official labeling includes specific instructions for crushing or splitting the tablet, it is intended to be swallowed whole.


Q: What are the research phases Enceron went through?

Studies submitted to regulatory bodies included both Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and high-quality observational studies. These trials examined outcomes for managing symptoms related to stroke sequelae and chronic dizziness or vertigo.


Q: Does Enceron treat the cause of the disease or just the symptoms?

The medicine's dual action is described as having a neuroprotective capability while also influencing cerebral blood flow. It is officially indicated for use in managing sequelae (consequences) of stroke and chronic symptoms like dizziness and vertigo.

How should Enceron be stored and disposed of?

The official regulatory documents specify strict conditions for the storage and disposal of Enceron (Ifenprodil tartrate tablets) to maintain product stability and ensure safety.

Official Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store below 30 C; do not freeze the product.
Protection Must be kept in the original container, which must be kept tightly closed to protect from light and moisture.
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal must adhere to specific environmental rules. Do not throw away unused or expired Enceron via household waste or wastewater (e.g., sink or toilet). The medication must be disposed of through a pharmacist or an authorized local pharmaceutical waste collection program, in accordance with local regulatory requirements.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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