Pharmacology of Gastrointestinal Medications

Antiacids

• Neutralize stomach acidity
• Decrease pepsin activity
• Increase gastric pH

Bulk-forming Laxatives

• Soften stools
• Increase stool bulk

H2 Receptor Antagonist

• Generic name ends in "-tidine"

Non-pharmacological treatments of constipation

• Increase fiber intake
• Increase hydration
• Increase exercise

Appropriate Use of Laxatives

• Short term use
• Avoid long term use
• Consult a physician for long-term treatment

Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)

• Characterised by erosions in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, duodenum)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

• Occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus
• Can cause heartburn
• May be linked to lifestyle changes, smoking, alcohol
• Can cause esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)

Promethazine

• Antiemetic
• Used to treat nausea and vomiting

Psyllium Mucilliod

• Bulk-forming laxative

### Metclopramide(Reglan)

• Prokinetic agent
• Increases the speed of gastric emptying
• Treats gastroparesis

### Ompeprazole

• Proton Pump Inhibior(PPI)
• Blocks the production of stomach acid
• Generic name ends in "-prazole"

### Sucralfate

• Mucosal Protectant
• Forms a protective layer over ulcerated areas

### Scopolamine Patch

• Antiemetics
• Used to prevent post-operative nausea and vomiting

### Diphenoxylate with Atropine

• Antidiarrheal
• Slows down bowel contractions
• Reduces diarrhea and cramping

Loperimide

• Antidiarrheal
• Slows down bowel contractions
• Decreases stool frequency

Misoprostol

• Prostaglandin E Analog
• Protects the stomach lining
• Often used to prevent PUD in patients taking NSAIDs

### Bismuth Subsalicylate

• Binds to bacteria
• Protects tissue

Ondansetron

• Antiemetics
• Prevents and treats nausea and vomiting

Bisacodyl

• Stimulant laxative
• Works through the stimulation of the intestines

Alosterone

• 5-Aminsosalicylates
• Used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases

Lactulose

• Osmotic laxative
• Increases the volume of fluid in the intestines
• Promotes bowel movement

Magnesium Hydroxide/Citrate

• Osmotic Diuretic
• Draws water into the colon
• Promotes bowel movement

Ranitidine

• H2 Receptor Antagonist
• Blocks the effects of histamine on stomach cells
• Reduces stomach acid production

This quiz covers essential pharmacological concepts related to gastrointestinal medications, including antiacids, laxatives, and therapies for GERD and PUD. Dive into the mechanisms of action, appropriate uses, and treatments for common GI disorders. Test your knowledge on the non-pharmacological approaches as well.