Levipride is a substituted benzamide derivative that belongs to the dopamine D₂ receptor antagonist class of drugs — pharmacologically related to sulpiride and metoclopramide.
Here’s a detailed overview
- Generic Name: Levipride
- Common Brand Names: (Varies by region; not widely available in North America — more common in parts of Asia and Europe)
- Pharmacological Class:
- Antidopaminergic agent
- Prokinetic agent
- Atypical antipsychotic (in some contexts)
Mechanism of Action:
Levipride blocks dopamine D₂ receptors primarily in:
- The chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) → reduces nausea and vomiting.
- The gastrointestinal tract → enhances gastric motility and accelerates gastric emptying.
- The mesolimbic system (CNS) → can exert mild antipsychotic and anxiolytic effects.
Indications (varies by country):
-
Functional dyspepsia and gastric motility disorders
- Nausea and vomiting (including drug-induced)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with dysmotility
- Mild anxiety or somatic depressive symptoms (in some older formulations)
Adverse Effects:
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) — dystonia, tremor, akathisia (dose-related)
- Hyperprolactinemia → galactorrhea, gynecomastia, menstrual disturbances
- Sedation or drowsiness
- Hypotension (rare)
Contraindications:
- Pheochromocytoma (risk of hypertensive crisis)
- History of seizure disorders
- Parkinson’s disease (can worsen symptoms)
- Known hypersensitivity to benzamides
Typical Adult Dose (varies by indication): 25–50 mg orally, 2–3 times daily before meals (Exact dose depends on the condition and local formulation.)
Comparison Notes