Prucalopride-* It is a selective 5-HT4 receptor agonist marketed recently in Europe, UK and Canada for the treatment of chronic constipation in women, when other laxatives fail to provide adequate relief.* It activates prejunctional 5-HT4 receptors on intrinsic enteric neurones to enhance release of the excitatory transmitter ACh, thereby promoting propulsive contractions in ileum and more prominently in colon.* Prucalopride is shown to have low affinity for 5-HT1B/1D receptor, as well as for cardiac K+ channels. It is therefore, believed to be free of cardiovascular risk. No Q-T prolongation has been noted during clinical trial.* Side effects are headache, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal pain and diarrhoea; but generally subside during use.
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