GI DRUGS: Antacids, H2 Blockers, PPIs, Laxatives, and More

Why is sodium bicarbonate considered dangerous for heart patients?

What is the primary action of histamine blockers such as cimetidine?

What is the typical duration of therapy required to heal an ulcer using histamine blockers?

What is the primary action of proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole?

What type of laxative should be tried first in patients with constipation?

What is the mechanism of action of stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl?

What is the primary mechanism of action for antacid drugs?

What is a common side effect of Aluminum hydroxide antacids?

Why should antacids be used with caution in patients with renal disease?

What is an important consideration for diabetic patients taking antacids?

What is the purpose of antacids in patients with ulcers caused by H. Pylori?

What is a common ingredient in many antacid products?

GI Drugs

Antacids: neutralize gastric acid that has already been secreted
Examples: Aluminum hydroxide (e.g., Maalox), Magnesium hydroxide (e.g., Mylanta), Calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums), Sodium bicarbonate (e.g., Baking Soda)

Nursing Implications for Antacids

Considerations: taste, cost, sodium content, potential interactions with other drugs
Aluminum hydroxide may cause constipation, while Magnesium salts may cause diarrhea
Use with caution in renal patients and diabetics
Sodium bicarbonate is contraindicated in heart patients due to high sodium content

Histamine Blockers

Prototypes: Cimetidine (Tagamet), Ranitidine (Zantac), Famotidine (Pepcid)
Action: block histamine, which stimulates HCL acid secretion
Dosage forms: oral, parenteral (IV infusions q 6 hours)
Therapy duration: often 6-8 weeks to heal ulcer
Side effects: few, including headache

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Action: suppress gastric acid secretion by blocking H+ and enzyme system
Examples: Prevacid (Lansoprazole), Prilosec (Omeprazole)
Prevent ulcers

Laxatives; Cathartics; Antidiarrheal

Two groups: relieve constipation and treat diarrhea
Factors affecting GI motility: exercise, diet, stress, travel, fluid intake
Incorrect use of OTC drugs for constipation or as a weight loss aid

Categories of Laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives: Psyllium (e.g., Metamucil), bran
Saline laxative cathartics: Milk of Magnesia, Phosphosoda enemas
Hyperosmotic agents: glycerin (glycerin suppository)
Stimulant irritants: Biscodyl (Dulcolax), Castor Oil
Stool-softening agents

This quiz covers chapters 50, 51, and 52 of Lilley et al's 9th edition, focusing on GI drugs, including antacids, histamine blockers, proton pump inhibitors, laxatives, cathartics, antidiarrheals, and antiemetics. Students will learn about the uses, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics of these medications.