Cinitapride
Uses of Cinitapride
Cinitapride is a prokinetic and antiemetic medicine used to improve the movement of food through the digestive tract and relieve symptoms of upper gastrointestinal disorders.
Cinitapride is commonly used for:
• Functional dyspepsia: Relieves bloating, early satiety, nausea, heartburn, and upper abdominal discomfort caused by impaired stomach emptying or poor gastrointestinal coordination.
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Helps reduce acid reflux symptoms by accelerating stomach emptying and increasing tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter, reducing the backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus.
• Gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying): Improves movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine in patients whose stomach empties too slowly.
• Hiatus hernia: Used as supportive therapy to reduce reflux symptoms associated with a hiatus hernia.
• Constipation: Helps stimulate bowel movement by improving overall gastrointestinal motility.
• Nausea and vomiting: Controls nausea related to functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Side effects of Cinitapride
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Drowsiness and sedation
How Cinitapride works
Cinitapride works by stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract by acting on specific receptors in the gut wall that regulate gastrointestinal muscle activity.
It primarily acts on serotonin 5-HT receptors in the gut:
- 5-HT4 receptor stimulation: Activating 5-HT4 receptors on nerve endings in the gastrointestinal tract triggers the release of acetylcholine the key chemical messenger that stimulates coordinated gut contractions. This speeds up the movement of food from the oesophagus through the stomach and into the small intestine.
- 5-HT1 receptor agonism: This action contributes to the modulation of gastric motility and tone, supporting coordinated movement of the gastrointestinal tract.
Cinitapride also acts as a dopamine receptor antagonist, blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the gut. Since dopamine normally slows gut movement, blocking these receptors removes this inhibitory effect, further enhancing gastric motility.
The combined result is faster gastric emptying, stronger and more coordinated gut muscle contractions, reduced bloating and nausea, and improved lower oesophageal sphincter tone, which helps reduce reflux symptoms.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BAMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Cinitapride can be taken orally (tablet, capsule, oral drops).
Age and Dose Restrictions
- The use of Cinitapride is recommended for adults.
Contraindications
- This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Cinitapride or other benzamide derivatives. Cinitapride is also contraindicated in patients with mechanical bowel obstruction, gastrointestinal perforation, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, pheochromocytoma, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and prolactin-secreting pituitary tumour (prolactinoma).
Other Medications to Avoid
- Cinitapride might interact with CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and clarithromycin). These medications can increase the level of Cinitapride in the body. Anticholinergic medicines may reduce the effectiveness of Cinitapride (like atropine and scopolamine).
Overdose and Missed Dose
- An overdose of Cinitapride may cause excessive drowsiness, confusion, agitation, or hallucinations. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
- If you miss a dose of Cinitapride, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to compensate for the missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
- In case you experience abdominal pain or nausea, try taking Cinitapride with food.
- If diarrhoea occurs, ensure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- In case of headaches, rest and relaxation might help.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
- Drowsiness is a known side effect of Cinitapride. Hence, if you feel drowsy or sedated after taking this medicine, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- The use of Cinitapride during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should only be done with caution.
Caution in Other Conditions
- Elderly patients and those with impaired liver or kidney function should exercise caution while taking Cinitapride. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and kidney function tests may be required.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
- If you are suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it's advised to avoid food and drinks that trigger heartburn. These include fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion and caffeine.
- Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce pressure on your abdomen and prevent stomach acid from backing up into your oesophagus.
- Stop smoking, as tobacco is known to weaken your lower oesophageal sphincter - a muscle which helps prevent acid from backing up into the oesophagus.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cinitapride a steroid?
No, Cinitapride is not a steroid. It belongs to the class of medicines known as gastrointestinal prokinetic agents, which are used to enhance movement in the gastrointestinal tract.
Does Cinitapride have any effect on sleep?
Cinitapride can occasionally cause drowsiness and sedation as a side effect, which may impact sleep. However, these central nervous system side effects are not common.
Will Cinitapride affect fertility?
There is no known impact of Cinitapride on fertility in men or women. However, if you are planning to conceive, it is recommended to consult your doctor before starting this medicine.
Is it safe to take Cinitapride daily?
Cinitapride should be taken daily as per your doctor's recommendation and prescription. It is important not to self-medicate or alter the dose without medical consultation.
How much time does Cinitapride take to work?
The peak levels of Cinitapride are usually achieved within 1 hour of oral administration. However, the time taken to observe improvement in symptoms will vary between individuals and the specific condition being managed.
Is Cinitapride available over the counter or do I need a prescription?
Cinitapride is a prescription medicine and is not available over the counter.
How long am I expected to be on treatment with Cinitapride?
The duration of treatment with Cinitapride varies depending on individual condition and response to therapy but should be followed as per your doctor's instructions.
Cinitapride in other salts
List of medicines for Cinitapride
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