18. Chap 13.1 GI drugs

What are the main types of GI drugs that are important to know as a PT? (3)

Drugs that control gastric acidity

Antidiarrheals

Laxatives

What are types of drugs that control gastric acid secretion or it's effects? (3)

Antacids

H2 receptor blockers

Proton pump inhibitors

How do antacids work to reduce acid in the stomach?

They contain a base (carbonate or hydroxide) that neutralizes HCl in the stomach

What are some of the negative effects of antacids after short-term use? (3)

Constipation

Diarrhea

Acid rebound

What are some potential negative effects of antacids after long-term use? (3)

Decreased drug metabolism

Decreased electrolyte absorption

Decreased drug/electrolyte excretion

How does histamine affect stomach acid?

Binds to H2 receptors in the gastric mucosa, increasing HCl secretion

How do H2 receptor blockers affect stomach acid?

They negate the effects of histamine in the stomach and therefore decrease HCl secretion

Are there generally problems with H2 receptor blockers in the stomach?

No, generally well tolerated

What does a proton pump do in the stomach?

It's an enzyme in the stomach wall that secrete H+ ions into the stomach, increasing acidity

How do proton pump inhibitors affect stomach acidity?

Decrease the amount of H+ concentration, limiting the formation of HCl acid, decreasing acidity

Are proton pump inhibitors generally well tolerated? What is their main concern as a side effect?

Generally well tolerated, may have acid rebound when discontinued

What are the potential long-term effects of proton pump inhibitors? (2)

Increased risk of fracture

Increased risk of tumors

What is H. pylori? What does it do in the stomach?

A bacteria that can sometimes cause the formation of a stomach ulcer

How are stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori typically treated? (2 ways)

Either via 1 PPI and 2 antibacterials or a bismuth compound + 1 PPI + 2 antibacterials

What are some other types of drugs that can control gastric acidity? (3)

Anticholinergics

Prostaglandins

Protective agents

What are some types of drugs that can be used as antidiarrheals? (3)

Opioid derivatives

Adsorbents

Bismuth salicylate

What is the primary problem with using too many antidiarrheals?

Can cause constipation

What are the types of laxatives? (3)

Bulk-forming

Stimulants

Hyperosmotic

What are the primary problems for laxative use? (2)

Can cause GI irritation

Can cause dependence

What type of pts need GI drugs? (3 specific populations)

To treat severe diarrhea in newborns

Fecal impaction in SCI

Gastric ulcers in severe trauma and burns