Overview of Aquasec
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Racecadotril (INN) |
| Form | Capsule, Granules/Powder for oral suspension |
| Pharmacological class | Enkephalinase Inhibitor |
| General purpose | Management of acute fluid loss (antisecretory action) |
| Origin | Synthetic compound |
Aquasec is the commercial name for a synthetic medicinal product whose active ingredient is Racecadotril, positioning it within the broad therapeutic class of antidiarrheal agents. Racecadotril is chemically designated as a prodrug that is administered via the oral route and rapidly metabolized into its active form, Thiorphan, within the body. This compound is a monotherapy product, meaning it contains Racecadotril as the single active constituent, and is available in several oral dosage forms, including capsule, granules for oral suspension, and powder for oral suspension formulations.
The Pharmacological Class and Unique Mechanism of Racecadotril
Racecadotril belongs to the highly specific pharmacological class of enkephalinase inhibitors, also accurately identified as Neprilysin inhibitors. This classification is central to its function, defining its mode of operation as the selective inhibition of the enzyme enkephalinase in the intestinal lining. Unlike antidiarrheal agents that work by slowing the gut's muscular movement, the mechanism of Racecadotril is distinctly antisecretory, meaning it reduces the excessive movement of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen. The reduction of stool water content through this mechanism is utilized in the management of acute diarrhea.
General Purpose: What Does Aquasec Help to Do?
The general therapeutic purpose of Aquasec is to manage the severe fluid hypersecretion that is characteristic of acute diarrhea, such as an episode of gastroenteritis. By achieving its antisecretory effect, the drug directly addresses the underlying fluid imbalance, which is the primary cause of watery stools, without influencing the basal functions or motility of the digestive tract. This specific action helps to decrease the overall volume and frequency of stools, providing targeted symptomatic relief.
Regulatory References

