Cisapride
Introduction To Cisapride
Cisapride is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) and constipation. It helps to increase gastric emptying of both liquids and solids.
Cisapride is taken before meals or at bedtime in a dose and duration as advised by the doctor. The dose you are given will depend on your condition and how you respond to the medicine. You should keep taking this medicine for as long as your doctor recommends. If you stop treatment too early your symptoms may come back and your condition may worsen. Let your doctor know about all other medications you are taking as some may affect, or be affected by this medicine.
The most common side effects are headache and nausea. Most of these are temporary and usually resolve with time. Contact your doctor straight away if you are at all concerned about any of these side effects. This medicine may cause diarrhea, so its better to take plenty of fluids while taking this medicine as it may help to prevent dehydration. It may cause also dizziness and sleepiness, so do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it can worsen your sleepiness.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor. Before taking this medicine, you should let your doctor know if you have heart disease, drink a lot of alcohol or have liver, or heart problems.
Uses of Cisapride
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Acid reflux)
- Constipation
Benefits of Cisapride
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Acid reflux)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic (long-term) condition
which is like having heartburn consistently rather than just occasionally. It
happens because a muscle above your stomach relaxes too much and allows
stomach contents to come back up into your oesophagus and mouth. Cisapride
reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes and relieves the pain associated
with heartburn and acid reflux. You should take it exactly as it is prescribed
for it to be effective.
Some simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms of GERD. Think
about what foods trigger heartburn and try to avoid them; eat smaller, more
frequent meals; try to lose weight if you are overweight and try to find ways
to relax. Do not eat within 3-4 hours of going to bed.
Constipation
Cisapride helps to stimulate bowel movements. It increases the movement of
the intestines, this helps empty your bowels and relieve constipation. This
also relieves the pain and discomfort caused due to constipation and improves
your quality of life. Eat more high-fiber foods including fruit and vegetables
and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation from happening.
Side effects of Cisapride
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Pulsid
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
How to use Cisapride
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Measure it with a measuring cup and take it by mouth. Shake well before use. Cisapride is to be taken empty stomach.
How Cisapride works
Cisapride indirectly stimulates the release of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that can increase the motility of the intestine.
Quick tips
- It is usually taken around 15 minutes before food or bedtime.
- Do not skip any dose and finish the complete course even if you feel better.
- Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Cisapride can cause dizziness and sleepiness.
- It may cause diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration while taking this medicine.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine because it can make drowsiness worse.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Cisapride if I’m pregnant?
Cisapride may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Cisapride if I’m breastfeeding?
Information regarding the use of Cisapride during breastfeeding is not available. Please consult your doctor.
AlcoholUNSAFE
Is drinking alcohol while taking Cisapride safe?
Cisapride may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
DrivingSAFE
Can I drive after taking Cisapride?
Cisapride does not usually affect your ability to drive.
KidneyUNSAFE
Can I take Cisapride if I have/had kidney diseases?
Cisapride is probably unsafe to use in patients with kidney disease and should be avoided. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Cisapride if I have/had liver diseases?
Cisapride should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Cisapride may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is Cisapride banned?
This medicine is banned for sale because it may cause serious irregular heartbeats, which can lead to death.
Q. What was Cisapride used for?
Before getting banned, this medicine was used to treat heartburn in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Q. What is gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the stomach's contents sometimes flow backward, up into the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your throat into your stomach). As a result, you may experience a burning sensation in your chest, pain in your chest, trouble swallowing, or a sore throat.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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