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Diosmectite (Smecta®)
Diosmectite is a natural aluminosilicate clay that absorbs water and toxins in the gastrointestinal tract to reduce diarrhea and protect the intestinal mucosa.
Diosmectite is a natural aluminosilicate clay that absorbs water and toxins in the gastrointestinal tract to reduce diarrhea and protect the intestinal mucosa. Used for Acute diarrhea in adults and children, Chronic diarrhea, Diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
At a glance
| Generic name | Diosmectite (Smecta®) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Ipsen |
| Drug class | Adsorbent antidiarrheal agent |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Gastroenterology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Diosmectite works through physical adsorption rather than pharmacological receptor binding. It binds to water, bacteria, viruses, and bacterial toxins in the intestinal lumen, reducing stool water content and protecting the intestinal epithelium from irritants. This mechanism makes it effective for treating acute and chronic diarrhea without systemic absorption.
Approved indications
- Acute diarrhea in adults and children
- Chronic diarrhea
- Diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea
Key clinical trials
- Efficacy of Diosmectite (Smecta®) in the Symptomatic Treatment of Acute Diarrhoea in Adults (PHASE4)
- Study to Evaluate Smecta® vs Placebo on the Time to Recovery Following an Acute Diarrhoea Episode in Adults (PHASE4)
- Effectiveness of Smecta in Combination With Oral Rehydration in the Treatment of Acute Watery Diarrhoea in Infants and Children (PHASE3)
- Chronic Administration of Diosmectite (SMECTA®) in Subjects With Chronic Diarrhoea (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |