What is "cloperastine"

n. A cough suppressant that acts on the central nervous system.

Cloperastine ( INN) or cloperastin, also known as cloperastine hydrochloride ( JAN) (brand names Hustazol, Nitossil, Seki) and cloperastine fendizoate (or hybenzoate), is an antitussive and antihistamine that is marketed as a cough suppressant in Japan, Hong Kong, and in some European countries. It was first introduced in 1972 in Japan, and then in Italy in 1981. The precise mechanism of action of cloperastine is not fully clear, but several different biological activities have been identified for the drug, of which include: ligand of the σ receptor (K = 20 nM) (likely an agonist), GIRK channel blocker (described as "potent"), antihistamine (K = 3.8 nM for the H receptor), and anticholinergic. It is thought that the latter two properties contribute to side effects, such as sedation and somnolence, while the former two may be involved in or responsible for the antitussive efficacy of cloperastine.