Drugs for Gastrointestinal Diseases

Drugs Used in Gastrointestinal Diseases

• Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases affect the tract from the mouth to the anus. These diseases are categorized into functional and structural types.
• Functional GI diseases have a normal GI tract but improper function, including constipation, diarrhea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Structural GI diseases show abnormalities in the GI tract that also do not function properly.Examples include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hemorrhoids, and colon cancer.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

• PPIs irreversibly block the enzyme system in parietal cells (proton pumps) which are responsible for acid production in the stomach.
• By blocking these pumps, PPIs reduce approximately 70% of acid production.
• Examples include esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and omeprazole (Prilosec).

Antacids (e.g., Relcer Gel)

• Neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms, like heartburn.
• Acid rebound can occur with prolonged high-dose use.
• Alcoholic drinks should be avoided as they can irritate the gastric lining.

Histamine-2 Receptor Blockers (e.g., Famotidine)

• Block histamine, a substance that triggers acid production.
• Alcoholic beverages should be avoided with these drugs.
• Side effects include headaches and dizziness.

Anti-motility Agents (e.g., Loperamide - Imodium)

• Slow intestinal contractions and prolong transit time, reducing bowel movements.
• May be taken with or without food.
• Side effects include constipation and dizziness.

Laxatives

• Bulk-forming agents (e.g., Metamucil): Absorb water and swell, creating bulkier stools to stimulate bowel movements.
• Lubricants (e.g., Mineral Oil): Coat the stool to make it softer and easier to pass.
• Stimulants (e.g., Bisacodyl - Dulcolax): Increase bowel contractions.

Antiemetic Drugs (e.g., Dimenhydrinate – Gravol)

• Block neurotransmitter receptors involved in inducing vomiting.

Prokinetic Agents (e.g., Metoclopramide – Moxalon)

• Increase stomach muscle contractions to speed up emptying and prevent stomach acid from refluxing back into the esophagus.

Probiotic Agents

• Probiotics are microorganisms in the GI tract offering health benefits.
• They may prevent pathogen binding and enhance the immune response.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

• A bacterium found in the stomach that can cause ulcers.
• Treatments often combine antibiotics with proton pump inhibitors.