diosmectite

Diosmectite is a natural silicate of aluminium and magnesium classified as an intestinal adsorbent. It is primarily used for the treatment of acute and chronic diarrhoea (both infectious and non-infectious), including irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, as well as diarrhea associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or HIV/AIDS[1][2][3]. Diosmectite acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract without systemic absorption. Its mechanism of action involves several effects: - Adsorption of bacteria, viruses, bacterial enterotoxins, and other toxins in the gut lumen. - Strengthening and protecting the intestinal mucus barrier by binding to mucins and increasing colonic mucin levels. - Reducing inflammation through modulation of proinflammatory cytokines. - Inhibiting viral replication (notably rotavirus) and reducing oxidative stress in enterocytes[2][6]. These actions help restore stool consistency and reduce diarrheal symptoms. Diosmectite is usually administered orally as a suspension in water.

Brand names

SmectaSmecdral

Other names

dioctahedral smectitemontmorillonitesmectites