Hidrasec Infants (Racecadotril)

Hidrasec Infants is indicated for the temporary relief of acute watery diarrhea in infants and young children.

• Management of dehydration risk associated with diarrheal episodes.
• Adjunct to oral rehydration therapy (ORT) to reduce stool output.
• Symptomatic control of loose stools caused by viral gastroenteritis.
• Short‑term use in children up to a specified age as directed by healthcare professionals.

• Racecadotril is a peripheral enkephalinase inhibitor. After oral absorption, it is converted to the active metabolite thiorphan, which blocks the enzyme neutral endopeptidase (NEP) in the intestinal mucosa. Inhibition of NEP prevents degradation of endogenous enkephalins, allowing them to activate opioid receptors on enteric neurons. This reduces secretion of electrolytes and water into the intestinal lumen, thereby limiting stool volume without affecting intestinal motility.

Like all medicines, Hidrasec Infants may cause unwanted effects, although many users experience none.

Common

• Mild abdominal discomfort or cramping.
• Nausea or transient vomiting.
• Flatulence or mild bloating.
• Constipation or reduced stool frequency.
• Headache.
• Skin rash or mild itching.

Serious

• Allergic reactions such as urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis.
• Severe skin reactions, including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain.
• Signs of hypersensitivity such as swelling of the face or throat.

Before giving Hidrasec Infants, consider the following precautions to ensure safe use in children.

• Verify the child’s age and weight against product labeling.
• Do not use in cases of bacterial dysentery or inflammatory bowel disease without medical advice.
• Ensure adequate oral rehydration; the product is not a substitute for fluid replacement.
• Keep out of reach of children; accidental ingestion of large amounts may cause toxicity.
• Consult a pediatrician if diarrhea persists longer than 48‑72 hours or is accompanied by fever, blood, or mucus.
• Avoid use in children with known hypersensitivity to racecadotril or its excipients.

Hidrasec Infants can interact with other medicines; consider the following guidance.

Avoid

• Concomitant use with potent opioid agonists that may enhance central opioid effects.
• Co‑administration with drugs that strongly inhibit neutral endopeptidase (NEP), as additive effects are not established.

Use with caution

• Anticholinergic agents that may affect gastrointestinal motility.
• Other antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide) due to overlapping mechanisms.
• Medications that may cause electrolyte imbalance, such as diuretics, when combined with fluid loss from diarrhea.