How Far Is Too Far? The Ethics of Mini Brain Research
December 11, 2025
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Brand Name :
Aldonil, Alrista, Epo, Aldorace, Aristat
Synonyms :
epalrestat
Class :
Aldose Reductase Inhibitor
Brand Name :
Aldonil, Alrista, Epo, Aldorace, Aristat
Synonyms :
epalrestat
Class :
Aldose Reductase Inhibitor
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Tablet
50 mg
150 mg
Take a dose of 50 mg orally three times daily
Not determined
Refer to adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
epalrestat works by inhibiting aldose reductase, an enzyme that converts glucose to sorbitol in nerve cells. In diabetic neuropathy, the accumulation of sorbitol can cause osmotic stress and damage to nerve cells.
It reduces the accumulation of sorbitol and helps alleviate nerve damage and associated symptoms.
Frequency not defined
Nausea
Vomiting
Abnormal liver function
Numbness or tingling
Diarrhea
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Black Box Warning
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Contraindication:
Caution:
Pregnancy consideration:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category.
Pharmacology
epalrestat is an aldose reductase inhibitor. In diabetic neuropathy, excess glucose can lead to the accumulation of sorbitol in nerve cells, causing osmotic stress and damage.
epalrestat reduces the conversion of glucose to sorbitol, thereby preventing or slowing down the buildup of sorbitol in nerve cells.
Pharmacodynamics
epalrestat disrupts the polyol pathway, a biochemical process that is implicated in the development of diabetic neuropathy. This pathway converts glucose to sorbitol and then to fructose.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
epalrestat is well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Distribution
epalrestat is distributed throughout the body.
Metabolism
epalrestat undergoes hepatic metabolism in the liver.
Elimination and excretion
epalrestat is eliminated from the body through the urine.
Administration
epalrestat is taken orally in the form of tablets.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: epalrestat
Why do we use epalrestat?
epalrestat is indicated for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy.
It is used to improve the quality of life for individuals with this condition by reducing the symptoms and complications associated with nerve damage caused by diabetes.
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