Pharmacology L1-4 , Digestive System

Bitters

Generally of vegetal origin, these substances increase gastric secretion and appetite.

Ciproheptadine (Peritol)

Originally used for hay fever treatment, this drug is known for increasing appetite.

Achylia gastrica

A condition characterized by a lack of gastric acid and pepsin.

Buffer tablets

Formulations that can be used in both hypo- or hyperacidity to stabilize gastric pH.

Pancreatic enzymes

Enzymes used for digestion, available in formulations like Festal and Mezym.

Choleretic drugs

Medications that stimulate the production of bile.

Hepatoprotector drugs

Medications designed to protect liver function; examples include Silibinin and Acethylcysteine.

Laxatives

Medications used to alleviate constipation.

Osmotics

Substances like magnesium hydroxide and lactulose that draw water into the intestines.

Stimulant laxatives

Drugs that increase gut motility, including senna and bisacodyl.

Diarrhea etiology

The causes of diarrhea, which include infections and increased gut motility.

Antibacterial therapy

Treatment focusing on bacterial infections, often involving rehydration solutions.

Gut motility inhibitors

Drugs that slow down intestinal movement, such as opioids and mebeverine.

Somatostatin

A hormone that reduces gastrointestinal secretion, often used in treating diarrhea associated with neuroendocrine tumors.

Antiflatulants

Medications used to relieve gas-related discomfort.

Ulcerative colitis

An inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon and/or rectum.

Aminosalicylates

A class of drugs used for mild symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

Thiopurines

Purine antimetabolites used in treating autoimmune diseases and certain cancers.

Infliximab

A monoclonal antibody used as a TNF-alpha blocker for inflammatory bowel disease.

New drugs for IBD

Includes other TNF-alpha blockers and integrin inhibitors used when standard treatments are ineffective.

Crohn's disease

A type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation and often leading to serious complications.

Esophagitis

Inflammation of the esophagus, often due to acid reflux or infections, leading to symptoms like pain and difficulty swallowing.

Celiac disease

An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, resulting in damage to the small intestine and impaired nutrient absorption.

Indications for Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs are indicated for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid.

Uses of Antacids

Antacids are used for the symptomatic relief of heartburn, indigestion, and sour stomach by neutralizing gastric acid.

Indications for Antidiarrheals

Antidiarrheals are indicated for the management of acute diarrhea, chronic diarrhea associated with inflammatory bowel disease, and to reduce stool frequency.

Uses of Enteral Nutrition

Enteral nutrition is indicated for patients who cannot meet their nutritional needs through oral intake, such as those with swallowing difficulties or gastrointestinal disorders.

Indications for Probiotic Therapy

Probiotic therapy is indicated for restoring gut flora balance, especially after antibiotic treatment, in managing diarrhea, and in irritable bowel syndrome.

Indications for Laxatives

Laxatives are indicated for the relief of constipation and for bowel preparation before diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy.

Indications for Crohn's Disease Treatment

Treatment for Crohn's disease includes medications for inflammation control, nutritional support, and surgery when complications arise.

Indications for Celiac Disease Management

Management of celiac disease involves a strict gluten-free diet to prevent intestinal damage and nutritional deficiencies.

Uses of Sorbitol

Sorbitol is used as a laxative for treating constipation and as a sugar substitute in food products.

Indications for Antiflatulants

Antiflatulants are indicated for the relief of abdominal discomfort due to excess gas in the gastrointestinal tract.

Symptoms of GERD

Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and chronic cough.

Causes of Constipation

Causes can include low fiber diet, dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Signs of Ulcerative Colitis

Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, urgency to use the bathroom, and fatigue.

Role of Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber aids in digestion, helps prevent constipation, and can promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea

A type of diarrhea that can occur after taking antibiotics, often due to disruption of gut flora.

Prevention of Celiac Disease Symptoms

Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is crucial to prevent symptoms and intestinal damage.

Clinical Use of Infliximab

Used in treating conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis by reducing inflammation.

Oral Rehydration Solutions

Solutions that help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to diarrhea.

Role of Antispecies Therapy

A type of treatment focused on restoring a balance of gut flora, particularly after antibiotic use, which can disrupt normal gut bacteria.

Symptoms of Crohn's Disease

Include abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition, sometimes presenting suddenly.

Impact of Stress on Gastrointestinal Health

Stress can exacerbate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

May reduce inflammation and support gut health; found in fish oil and flaxseeds, beneficial for managing IBD.

Symptoms of Esophagitis

Can include pain during swallowing, chest pain, and acid reflux; often treated through dietary changes and medications.

Educational Strategies for Managing GI Disorders

Includes patient education on diet, symptoms tracking, medication adherence, and when to seek medical attention.

Nutritional Support in Severe IBD

May include enteral nutrition or parenteral nutrition for patients unable to meet needs orally, especially during flare-ups.

Chronic Solvent Pneumonitis

A respiratory condition resulting from prolonged exposure to solvents, leading to lung inflammation.

Drug-Induced Liver Injury

Liver damage resulting from adverse effects of medications, requiring monitoring and management.

Intragastric Balloon Therapy

A weight-loss procedure involving the placement of a balloon in the stomach to promote fullness.

Diverticulitis

An inflammatory condition of diverticula in the colon, often requiring dietary modifications and medication.

Hepatitis C Management

Treatment strategies for Hepatitis C, including antiviral medications and lifestyle modifications.

Dietary Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Involves avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and maintaining an upright position after eating.

Role of Gastric Secretions

Essential for digestion and absorption of nutrients; include hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes.

Enteral vs Parenteral Nutrition

Enteral nutrition delivers nutrients directly to the gastrointestinal tract, while parenteral nutrition supplies nutrients intravenously.

Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Typically include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, often managed through dietary changes.

Oral Antibiotics for GI Infections

Used to treat bacterial gastrointestinal infections; efficacy based on the causative organism's sensitivity.

Impact of Probiotics on Gut Health

Probiotics help restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, alleviating gastrointestinal disorders.

Dietary Management of Constipation

Involves increasing fiber intake, hydration, and regular physical activity to promote regular bowel movements.

Evaluating Abdominal Pain

Assessing factors such as location, quality, timing, and associated symptoms to identify potential gastrointestinal issues.

Differential Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain

A systematic approach to distinguish between various conditions that could cause abdominal discomfort, including ulcers, pancreatitis, and intestinal obstruction.

Long-term Management of IBD

Includes regular monitoring, medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and potential surgical interventions depending on disease progression.

Role of Dietary Supplements in IBD

Can include probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins to support nutritional status and gut health.

Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy

Involves dietary modifications and laxatives to clear the bowels for better visualization during the procedure.

Impact of Gluten on Celiac Disease

Gluten triggers an immune response in genetically predisposed individuals, causing inflammation and damage to the small intestine.

Patient Education for GI Disorders

Essential for empowering patients to manage their conditions effectively, including understanding symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications.

Role of Fiber in Bowel Health

Fiber promotes healthy bowel movements by adding bulk to stools and aiding in digestion.

Management of Antibiotic Resistance in GI Infections

Utilizing appropriate antibiotic stewardship to prevent increased resistance rates and maintaining effectiveness of available treatments.