Products
Camostat is not commercially available in many countries. It is approved in Japan in tablet form (Foipan).
Structure and properties
Camostat (C20H22N4O5, Mr = 398.4 g/mol) is present in the drug in the form of the salt camostat mesilate, a white crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water. It is metabolized by ester hydrolysis. This produces an active metabolite.
Effects
Camostat (ATC B02AB04) has antiviral properties against coronaviruses. The effects are due to inhibition of the endogenous protease TMPRSS2, which the SARS-CoV-2 virus requires for host cell entry (and exit). Camostat is a serine protease inhibitor.
Indications for use
Camostat’s uses include inflammation of the pancreas and postoperative reflux esophagitis. Off-label use:
- In 2020, Camostat was investigated for the treatment of the viral disease Covid-19.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The tablets are usually taken three times a day after meals.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include:
- Skin rashes, itching
- Nausea, diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Elevated liver enzymes
