Anti-diarrheal (enkephalinase inhibitor)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Racecadotril is an anti-diarrhea medicine that works by reducing the amount of water and salts your intestines release, which helps to make your stool less watery without stopping your gut from moving normally.
Inhibits enkephalinase (neutral endopeptidase), preventing the breakdown of endogenous enkephalins in the intestinal mucosa, thereby enhancing opioid receptor signaling and reducing intestinal secretion and motility to decrease stool output.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Adults should take one 100 mg capsule three times a day (morning, afternoon, and evening), preferably before meals. Start with one capsule as soon as diarrhea begins, then continue until your stool returns to normal. Do not use for more than 7 days. You can find it in Nigeria as Hidrasec Capsule 100 mg.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
Racecadotril treats the symptom (watery stool) but does not cure the infection causing the diarrhea — make sure to use oral rehydration salts (ORS) alongside it to replace lost fluids. Do not use it as a substitute for seeing a doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 2-3 days or if there is blood in your stool. Buy only from licensed pharmacies — products like Hidrasec should come in proper packaging, so avoid buying loose or repackaged sachets from roadside sellers.
Loperamide (Imodium) — do not combine with racecadotril as both treat diarrhea and using them together can cause severe constipation. ACE inhibitors like lisinopril (used for high blood pressure) — racecadotril may increase the risk of swelling. There are no major food or alcohol interactions, but it is best to avoid alcohol during diarrhea as it worsens dehydration.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Racecadotril with your other drugs?
Racecadotril is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to use it — consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it away from moisture and out of reach of children. Once you mix the granules with water, use them immediately.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Racecadotril?
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