The Sound of Evolution
Prucalopride
Mechanism of action:
Prucalopride is a highly selective serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonist. Prucalopride binds to 5-HT4 receptors on the myenteric plexus, activates Gs protein, and subsequently stimulates adenylyl cyclase, resulting in increased cAMP. This promotes the release of acetylcholine from enteric nerve terminals, enhances parasympathetic stimulation of intestinal smooth muscle, strengthens intestinal motility, and increases high-amplitude propulsive contractions.
Reference(s):
1. Shin A et al. (2014). Systematic review with meta-analysis: highly selective 5-HT4 agonists (prucalopride, velusetrag or naronapride) in chronic constipation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther.
2. Omer A et al. (2017). An update on prucalopride in the treatment of chronic constipation. Therap Adv Gastroenterol.
3. Briejer MR et al. (2001). The in vitro pharmacological profile of prucalopride, a novel enterokinetic compound. Eur J Pharmacol.