Stride as an Antipsychotic and GI Agent (Sulpiride or Levosulpiride)
In many countries outside of the United States, the brand name Stride, or its variants, is used for prescription medication containing the active ingredient Sulpiride or its derivative Levosulpiride. This drug is classified as an atypical antipsychotic within the benzamide class. Its primary applications span both psychiatric and gastrointestinal conditions, depending on the dosage.
Psychiatric Applications
At moderate to high doses, Stride (Sulpiride/Levosulpiride) is used to manage various mental health disorders. The medication works by selectively blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, helping to restore chemical balance and improve cognitive function.
- Schizophrenia: This is the primary indication for higher doses of the medication. It effectively manages both positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, and negative symptoms, like social withdrawal and lack of motivation.
- Depression and Anxiety: At lower doses, Sulpiride exhibits antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. It is used for conditions like major depressive disorder, dysthymia, and anxiety, sometimes as an add-on therapy.
- Tourette Syndrome: In some regions, it is a first-line treatment for managing tics in individuals with Tourette Syndrome.
Gastrointestinal Applications
At low doses, Levosulpiride, in particular, is a prokinetic agent, meaning it improves motility in the digestive system. This action makes it beneficial for several digestive complaints.
- Functional Dyspepsia: It helps relieve symptoms of indigestion, including bloating, nausea, and epigastric discomfort.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): It increases the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing acid reflux.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): It can help manage symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain associated with IBS.
- Nausea and Vomiting: It is used to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or other medical conditions.
Important Safety Information
It is crucial to take Stride (Sulpiride/Levosulpiride) only under a doctor's supervision due to potential side effects and drug interactions. Common side effects may include weight gain, drowsiness, and tremors. The medication can also increase prolactin levels, which can cause breast pain or gynecomastia and is contraindicated in patients with certain types of breast cancer. Abrupt discontinuation can worsen symptoms, and in rare cases, a serious condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) can occur.
Stridex Medicated Pads (Acne Treatment)
In the US market, a widely recognized product with a similar-sounding name is Stridex, which is an over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment.
- Uses: The pads contain salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and treats acne.
- Action: It reduces the number of pimples and blackheads and helps prevent new breakouts from forming.
- Availability: It is available in different strengths, including maximum strength with 2% salicylic acid and sensitive skin formulas with a lower concentration.
Stride Veterinary Supplements (Animal Joint Health)
Another application of the Stride name is for a line of nutritional supplements used in animals, particularly dogs and horses.
- Purpose: These supplements are formulated to support the nutritional maintenance of healthy cartilage and joints.
- Ingredients: They typically contain ingredients like glucosamine HCL, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane).
- Benefits: Veterinary Stride products help to promote mobility, ease stiffness, and relieve discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia in pets.
Comparative Overview: Stride vs. Stridex and Veterinary Stride
| Feature | Stride (Sulpiride/Levosulpiride) | Stridex (Salicylic Acid Pads) | Stride (Veterinary Supplements) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Psychiatric and gastrointestinal conditions | Acne treatment | Nutritional support for animal joints |
| Active Ingredient(s) | Sulpiride or Levosulpiride | Salicylic Acid | Glucosamine HCL, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM, Hyaluronic Acid, etc. |
| Availability | Prescription only in many countries (not US) | Over-the-counter (OTC) | Pet stores and veterinary suppliers |
| Route of Administration | Oral tablet | Topical pads | Liquid or powder mixed with feed |
| Regulatory Status | Varies internationally; not FDA-approved in US | FDA-regulated OTC drug | Subject to regulations for animal feed supplements |
| Key Functions | Dopamine antagonist, prokinetic | Exfoliates, unclogs pores | Promotes cartilage health, reduces joint discomfort |
STRIDE Clinical Trial Acronyms
Finally, it is worth noting that STRIDE is also an acronym used for various clinical trial programs, which are not medications themselves but research initiatives. For example:
- Falls Prevention: A randomized clinical trial named STRIDE has evaluated a multi-faceted intervention to reduce falls among older people.
- PAD Treatment: Another clinical trial investigated the use of the drug semaglutide to improve walking capacity in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion
Determining the specific use of a product named Stride requires looking beyond the name to its active ingredient and intended purpose. For humans, it most likely refers to the prescription antipsychotic and prokinetic containing Sulpiride or Levosulpiride, commonly used for conditions like schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and various digestive issues. However, the similar-sounding Stridex is an OTC acne product. For animals, Stride is a joint health supplement. The context of the name is critical, and it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional or a veterinarian to ensure you are using the correct product for your needs.
For more information on the clinical trial involving falls prevention, a detailed overview can be found on the NIH website, which is part of the STRIDE trial documentation(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5729112/).
