Medications Used for Gastrointestinal System Disorders

A comprehensive set of practice flashcards covering medications for gastrointestinal disorders, including antacids, PPIs, laxatives, and emetics based on Unit 22 lecture notes.

What are common complaints associated with the gastrointestinal system?

Common complaints include ulcers, GERD, dyspepsia, pyrosis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

Which bacterium is identified as a common cause of GI complaints?

$Helicobacter\,pylori$ ($H.\,pylori$).

What list of substances and lifestyle factors can cause GI complaints?

Poor diet, stress, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and NSAIDS (e.g., ibuprofen).

What is the primary function of antacids?

To neutralize stomach acid.

Which specific antacid can produce a systemic effect?

Sodium bicarbonate.

What side effect is typically associated with aluminum or calcium-based antacids?

They may cause constipation.

What side effect is typically associated with magnesium-based antacids?

They may cause diarrhea.

What are the two primary actions of Histamine H2-Receptor Antagonists?

They inhibit gastric acid secretion and inhibit gastric acid stimulation.

What biological functions might be affected by Histamine H2-Receptor Antagonists as an adverse reaction?

Libido or sexual function.

Under what conditions should Histamine H2-Receptor Antagonists be avoided?

They should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for children younger than $16$ years of age.

What are three examples of Histamine H2-Receptor Antagonists?

Tagamet, Pepcid, and Zantac.

What is the primary action of Proton Pump Inhibitors?

They suppress gastric acid secretion.

What administration rule applies to Proton Pump Inhibitor medications?

The medication should not be crushed or chewed.

What are four examples of Proton Pump Inhibitors?

Prilosec, Aciphex, Prevacid, and Nexium.

What are the characteristics of the mucosal protective medication Sucralfate?

It is cytoprotective, does not inhibit the release of acids, and coats the surface of the damaged mucosa.

What is the specific use for the mucosal protective medication Misoprostol?

To prevent NSAID induced gastric ulcers.

What are the examples of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) mentioned in the notes?

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

What is the stepwise sequence of agents used for Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Aminosalicylates, Antibiotics, Corticosteroids, Immunomodulators, and Clinical trial agents.

What are the six different types of laxatives listed?

Bulk-forming agents, Lubricants, Osmotic laxatives, Saline laxatives, Stool softeners, and Stimulant laxatives.

Why would a laxative be used after anthelmintic therapy?

To speed the elimination of parasites.

Why are laxatives prescribed to cardiac patients?

To facilitate the reduction of strain of defecation.

What are the contraindications for laxative use?

Impaction, appendicitis, obstruction, hepatitis, and third trimester pregnancy.

What caution is advised regarding the use of Pepto-Bismol?

Avoid salicylates with Pepto-Bismol.

What is the classification of Lomotil under the controlled substances act?

Schedule $V$ controlled substance.

Which drug class should not be combined with Lomotil?

MAO inhibitors.

What are the contraindications for the use of Imodium?

Patients with severe ulcerative colitis and pseudomembranous enterocolitis.

How is helminthiasis defined?

Intestinal infestation by parasitic worms, often associated with unsanitary living conditions.

What are four examples of conditions requiring Antiprotozoal Agents?

Malaria, Giardiasis, trichomoniasis, and amebiasis.

What is the function of Emetics and what are two examples?

They induce vomiting; examples include Apomorphine HCL and Ipecac.

When are emetics contraindicated and what should be given after vomiting stops?

Contraindicated if caustic substances are ingested; activated charcoal is given after vomiting stops.