esmentan

Esmentan is a medication used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation. It belongs to a class of drugs known as prokinetic agents, which work by stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract. Esmentan is available in tablet form and is typically taken orally.

The primary active ingredient in esmentan is metoclopramide, a dopamine antagonist that acts on the central nervous system to increase the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter and stimulate the movement of the gastrointestinal tract. This action helps to alleviate symptoms such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain associated with IBS.

Esmentan is indicated for the treatment of IBS with constipation when other treatments have been ineffective or when the patient is unable to tolerate other medications. It is important to note that esmentan should be used under medical supervision, as it may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and extrapyramidal symptoms (e.g., restlessness, tremors, and muscle stiffness).

The dosage of esmentan is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be increased to 20 mg once daily if necessary. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg once daily.

Esmentan is not recommended for patients with a history of severe liver disease, as metoclopramide can be metabolized by the liver and may accumulate in the body, leading to toxic effects. Additionally, esmentan should be used with caution in patients with a history of neurological disorders, as it may exacerbate symptoms.

In summary, esmentan is a medication used to treat IBS with constipation by stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract. It is available in tablet form and is typically taken orally under medical supervision. The primary active ingredient is metoclopramide, which works by acting on the central nervous system to increase the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter and stimulate gastrointestinal motility. Esmentan is indicated for IBS with constipation when other treatments have been ineffective or when the patient is unable to tolerate other medications. It is important to be aware of potential side effects and to use the medication with caution in patients with a history of severe liver disease or neurological disorders.