Camostat Mesilate (also spelled Camostat Mesylate) is a synthetic serine protease inhibitor with the CAS number 59721-29-8. Known by its brand name Foipan in Japan, this pharmaceutical compound has been used clinically since 1985 for the treatment of various digestive disorders. Recent research has expanded its applications to include potential treatments for COVID-19 and other conditions, making it a compound of significant medical interest.
What is Camostat Mesilate?
Camostat Mesilate is a low-molecular-weight synthetic protease inhibitor with the chemical formula C21H26N4O8S and a molecular weight of approximately 494.53 g/mol. Its chemical name is 4-[[4-[(Aminoiminomethyl)amino]benzoyl]oxy]benzeneacetic acid 2-(dimethylamino)-2-oxoethyl ester methanesulfonate.
First developed and marketed in Japan in 1985 under the trade name Foipan, Camostat Mesilate belongs to a class of drugs known as serine protease inhibitors. It works by inhibiting various proteolytic enzymes in the body, particularly trypsin, which plays a crucial role in digestive processes and pancreatic function.
What Are the Benefits?
Camostat Mesilate offers several therapeutic benefits that have made it valuable in clinical practice:
Digestive Enzyme Modulation
One of the primary benefits of Camostat Mesilate is its ability to effectively modulate digestive enzymes. By inhibiting trypsin and other proteases, it helps regulate digestive function and relieves symptoms associated with various gastrointestinal disorders. This modulation can significantly improve quality of life for patients suffering from chronic digestive conditions.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Research has shown that Camostat Mesilate exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and various serine proteases. This makes it useful in managing inflammatory conditions affecting the digestive system and potentially other areas of the body.
Potential Antiviral Properties
Recent studies have investigated Camostat Mesilate’s potential antiviral applications, particularly against SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19). The compound inhibits TMPRSS2 (Transmembrane protease, serine 2), an enzyme that helps viruses enter host cells. This mechanism has prompted clinical trials evaluating its efficacy in treating COVID-19 patients.
What Are the Uses?
Camostat Mesilate is used in both clinical practice and research settings:
Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment
The primary approved use of Camostat Mesilate is in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis and acute exacerbations of chronic pancreatitis. By inhibiting trypsin activity, it helps reduce pancreatic inflammation and pain associated with these conditions.
Postoperative Reflux Esophagitis
Camostat Mesilate is also approved for treating postoperative reflux esophagitis, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus after surgery, causing inflammation and discomfort.
COVID-19 Clinical Trials
Several Phase 2 clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate Camostat Mesilate’s safety and efficacy in treating COVID-19, particularly in high-risk outpatients. These trials investigated whether the protease inhibitor could help prevent severe disease progression.
Other Investigational Uses
Research is ongoing for several other potential applications of Camostat Mesilate:
- Protein-losing enteropathy following Fontan operation (cardiac surgery)
- Kidney protection in chronic kidney disease patients with proteinuria
- Potential treatment for oral cancer
- Management of various inflammatory conditions
Safety and Side Effects
Camostat Mesilate is generally well tolerated when used as prescribed. However, as with any medication, some patients may experience side effects. Common adverse reactions may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort.
Serious side effects are rare, but patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms during treatment. Camostat Mesilate should only be used under medical supervision, and patients should inform their doctor about any other medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use Camostat Mesilate if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Chemical Specifications
| Parameter | Spezifikation |
| CAS-Nummer | 59721-29-8 |
| Chemical Formula | C21H26N4O8S |
| Molekulargewicht | 494.53 g/mol |
| Chemical Name | 4-[[4-[(Aminoiminomethyl)amino]benzoyl]oxy]benzeneacetic acid 2-(dimethylamino)-2-oxoethyl ester methanesulfonate |
| Brand Name | Foipan (Japan) |
| Drug Class | Serine protease inhibitor |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Camostat Mesilate used for?
Camostat Mesilate is primarily used for treating chronic pancreatitis, acute exacerbations of chronic pancreatitis, and postoperative reflux esophagitis. It is also being investigated for COVID-19 treatment and other conditions.
How does Camostat Mesilate work?
Camostat Mesilate works by inhibiting serine proteases, including trypsin, kallikrein, thrombin, and plasmin. It also inhibits TMPRSS2, an enzyme that helps viruses enter cells. This mechanism helps reduce pancreatic inflammation and may block viral entry.
Is Camostat Mesilate available in the United States?
Camostat Mesilate is approved and available in Japan and several other countries but is not currently FDA-approved in the United States. It may be available through special import programs or clinical trials.
What are the side effects of Camostat Mesilate?
Common side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Most patients tolerate the medication well, but you should consult your healthcare provider if you experience any adverse reactions.
Can Camostat Mesilate treat COVID-19?
Camostat Mesilate has been investigated in clinical trials for COVID-19 treatment due to its ability to inhibit TMPRSS2, an enzyme the virus uses to enter cells. However, definitive conclusions about its efficacy await further clinical trial results.
Why Choose Our Camostat Mesilate?
When sourcing Camostat Mesilate for research or pharmaceutical manufacturing purposes, quality and reliability are paramount. Our company provides high-purity Camostat Mesilate that meets rigorous quality standards, making it suitable for pharmaceutical applications and research purposes.
- High-purity pharmaceutical-grade product
- Consistent quality with batch-to-batch reliability
- Competitive pricing for bulk orders
- Technical support and documentation
- Reliable supply chain for ongoing needs
Contact us today to learn more about our Camostat Mesilate products and how we can support your pharmaceutical or research needs.
Related Products
Explore our other pharmaceutical intermediates and API products:
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- Nafamostat Mesilate – Related protease inhibitor
- Metronidazole – Antiprotozoal and antibiotic
- Itraconazole – Antifungal agent
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