ACOTIAMIDE
Background and Date of Approval
Acotiamide is a gastroprokinetic agent approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of functional dyspepsia.
Uses
Acotiamide is used to treat gastrointestinal conditions, primarily functional dyspepsia. Functional dyspepsia is a common digestive disorder caused by chronic or recurrent upper abdominal discomfort or pain, often accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, early satiety (feeling full quickly after eating), and nausea. It's a condition in which no underlying structural or metabolic cause can be identified.
How is it administered?
Take the Acotiamide as your physician advises. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Acotiamide are diarrhea, headache, and dizziness.
Warnings
Do not use this drug if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to it or any components in the medication. No clinical study was performed on the safety of Acotiamide in breastfeeding and pregnant women. Consult your doctor for more advice. Individuals with severe kidney impairment may require adjusted dosages or closer monitoring when taking this drug.
Precautions
The safety and effectiveness of this medicine in children and infants have not been established. This medication is prescribed for adults, so its use in pediatric populations may require careful consideration and monitoring.
Word of Advice
Diarrhoea can result in dehydration and fluid loss. When using Acotiamide, it is important to consume adequate fluids, including water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths. Adequate fluid intake helps restore lost fluids and electrolytes and facilitates the body's recovery.
References
Acofide Tablets 100 mg - Report on the deliberation results - PMDA. [Accessed date 02 Sep 2023]; https://www.pmda.go.jp/files/000153467.pdf Masahiro Ueda et al; Profile of acotiamide in the treatment of functional dyspepsia; Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology 2016; [Accessed date 02 Sep 2023]; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc4827886/ Jan Tack, Pieter Janssen; Acotiamide (Z-338, YM443), a new drug for the treatment of functional dyspepsia; Expert opinion on Investigational drugs 2011; [Accessed date 02 Sep 2023]; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21417958/ Guoguang Xiao et al.; Efficacy and safety of acotiamide for the treatment of functional dyspepsia: systematic review and meta-analysis; The Scientific World Journal 2014; [Accessed date 02 Sep 2023]; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc4146483/ Kazuyoshi Yoshii et al.; Mechanism for distribution of acotiamide, a novel gastroprokinetic agent for the treatment of functional dyspepsia, in rat stomach; Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 2011;[Accessed date 02 Sep 2023]; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21630282/
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Acotiamide work to treat functional dyspepsia?
Acotiamide is a prokinetic agent, which means it enhances the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. It does this by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates the contraction of muscles in the digestive system. By increasing the levels of acetylcholine, this drug helps improve the movement of food through the stomach and small intestine, which can relieve symptoms of functional dyspepsia.
Is Acotiamide available over-the-counter (OTC)?
Acotiamide is available by prescription and is not commonly found as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. It is important to consult with a physician for an accurate diagnosis and prescription.
Are there any side effects associated with acotiamide?
The common side effects of Acotiamide may include headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they are usually mild. If you experience severe side effects, contact your physician.
Is Acotiamide safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
The safety of Acotiamide during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well studied. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is highly advised to discuss the benefits and risks of using this drug with your physician before taking the medication.
Can I take other medications with Acotiamide?
Inform your physician about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking, as there may be potential interactions with Acotiamide. Your provider can assess the safety and efficacy of combining this drug with other medications and make appropriate recommendations.