Otilonium bromide: a selective spasmolytic for the gastrointestinal tract

Experimental studies have shown that otilonium bromide (OB) inhibits both b aseline and chemically or physically stimulated gastrointestinal motility, The spasmolytic activity of OB in the gastrointestinal tract occurs at dose s that do not affect gastric secretion or produce typical atropine-like sid e-effects. The mechanism of action is composite: interference with calcium ion movement from intra- and extracellular sites; blockade of calcium chann els; and binding to muscarinic receptors and tachykinin neurokinin-2 recept ors, Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that OB accumulates in the lower in testine and has poor systemic absorption, Clinical studies have confirmed O B as a potent spasmolytic drug with a good tolerability profile. Studies in patients with irritable bowel syndrome demonstrated OB to be superior to p lacebo and reference drugs in parameters such as pain, abdominal distension and motility. The composite and local mechanism of OB action reduces hyper motility and modulates visceral sensation: factors thought to be responsibl e for pain improvement recorded in clinical trials, The compound is markete d worldwide and no serious adverse events have been reported as yet, confir ming its excellent tolerability.