Veterinary Pharmacology: Drugs that affect the GI Tract

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on veterinary pharmacology related to the gastrointestinal tract.

Emetics

Drugs that induce vomiting, used to expel toxins, drugs, or foreign materials.

Contraindications for Emetics

Situations where emetics should not be used, including comatose patients, shock, ingestion of caustic substances, and petroleum products.

Apomorphine

A powerful central dopamine agonist that stimulates the CRTZ to induce vomiting.

Ropinirole (Clevor)

A centrally acting emetic recently FDA approved for veterinary use, available as an ophthalmic drop.

Xylazine

An emetic of choice for cats, though its exact method of action remains unclear.

Hydrogen Peroxide

A peripherally acting emetic that irritates the oropharynx and stomach, not recommended in cats.

Antiemetics

Drugs that prevent vomiting without correcting underlying causes, blocking receptors in the CRTZ and vomiting center.

Phenothiazines

Antiemetics that block cholinergic and dopamine receptors in the CRTZ; Acepromazine is an example.

Antihistamines

Help reduce vomiting associated with motion sickness; ineffective in cats due to lack of histamine receptors.

Metoclopramide (Reglan)

Antiemetic that blocks dopamine receptors and speeds gastric emptying; has a short half-life.

Ondansetron (Zofran)

Blocks serotonin receptors in the CRTZ, effective for vomiting associated with chemotherapy.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Drugs that prevent hydrogen from being pumped out of cells, reducing hydrochloric acid production.

Misoprostol

A prostaglandin analog that prevents ulcers, increases mucus production, and is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Antacids

Neutralize gastric acid, used to supplement calcium, aluminum, or magnesium.

Sucralfate (Carafate)

A mucosal protectant that forms a paste in the stomach to help heal ulcers.

Antidiarrheal Drugs

Medications that reduce diarrhea through various mechanisms such as decreasing gut motility or absorbing excess fluids.

Osmotic Laxatives

Pull fluid into the colon to relieve constipation; examples include Magnesium Sulfate and Lactulose.

GI Stimulants/Promotility Agents

Increase GI motility; Metoclopramide and Cisapride are examples used for specific conditions.

Appetite Stimulants

Medications that increase appetite, including Capromorelin and Mirtazapine.

Miscellaneous GI Drugs

Include antisialogues, probiotics, and antibiotics for various GI concerns.