Racecadotril: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Racecadotril reduces fluid loss in acute diarrhoea, useful alongside ORS in children. It belongs to the Prokinetic & digestive (extra) group. These help the stomach empty, calm the gut, or restore gut balance.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Prokinetic & digestive (extra)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Acute watery diarrhoea in adults
Acute diarrhoea in children, alongside ORS
Reducing stool water loss during a bout of diarrhoea

Common brand names

India: Redotil, Zedott, Enuff
Worldwide: Hidrasec

Common side effects

Headache
Skin rash or itching
Hives (rare)

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor if you take an ACE-inhibitor blood-pressure medicine (such as ramipril), as the risk of swelling may be higher
Blood or mucus in stool or high fever needs a doctor's assessment
Always continue ORS and fluids; tell your doctor about kidney or liver disease

When to see a doctor urgently

Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat (urgent)
Blood in stool or high fever
Signs of dehydration: very little urine, sunken eyes, unusual drowsiness in a child (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of racecadotril depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Does racecadotril replace ORS?

No. ORS is the most important treatment; racecadotril only reduces fluid loss alongside it.

How is it different from loperamide?

Unlike loperamide, it does not slow the gut, so it rarely causes constipation and can be used in children.

Does diarrhoea need an antibiotic?

Most diarrhoea does not. Your doctor will decide if there are signs of a bacterial infection.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.