Caloprid 2

Indications

Caloprid is recommended for managing chronic constipation in adults when standard laxatives prove ineffective.

Pharmacology

Prucalopride functions as a selective activator of 5-HT4 receptors, distinct from hERG channel or 5-HT1 receptors, thereby minimizing cardiovascular risks associated with similar medications. These receptors are widespread in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in smooth muscle cells, enterochromaffin cells, and myenteric plexus. By stimulating motility through acetylcholine release, prucalopride interacts specifically with 5-HT4 receptors, inducing muscle contraction in the colon and promoting luminal content propulsion.

Dosage & Administration

For adults, the recommended dose is 2 mg once daily, with or without food, at any time of day. Due to its specific mechanism, exceeding 2 mg daily is unlikely to enhance efficacy. Elderly patients should initiate with 1 mg once daily, potentially increasing to 2 mg if necessary. Prucalopride is not suitable for children under 18 years.

Interaction

Caloprid demonstrates minimal interaction potential, unlikely to affect the metabolism of co-administered medications. While it may interact with P-glycoprotein, clinically significant inhibition is absent. Some potent inhibitors, like ketoconazole, may slightly increase prucalopride exposure, but this effect is negligible.

Contraindications

Prucalopride should not be used in individuals hypersensitive to the active ingredient or excipients, or those with renal impairment requiring dialysis.

Side Effects

Common adverse reactions include headache and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea, typically resolving within a few days. Most adverse events are mild to moderate in severity.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Prucalopride is not advised during pregnancy, and effective contraception is recommended for women of childbearing potential during treatment. While animal studies suggest no harm, human data is lacking, so breastfeeding while using prucalopride is not recommended.

Precautions & Warnings

Renal excretion is the primary elimination route; thus, a reduced dose is suggested for severe renal impairment. Caution is advised in severe hepatic impairment cases. Severe diarrhea may reduce oral contraceptive efficacy, necessitating additional contraceptive methods. Patients with specific hereditary conditions should avoid lactose-containing tablets.

Use in Special Populations

Adjustments are required for patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, with lower initial doses recommended.

Overdose Effects

Overdose symptoms may include headache, nausea, and diarrhea, with supportive treatment recommended.

Therapeutic Class

Caloprid belongs to the class of osmotic purgatives.

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, at room temperature, in the original bottle with the desiccant intact.