Upper and Lower GI Tract Pharmacology

These flashcards cover vocabulary terms related to upper and lower gastrointestinal tract pharmacology, including medications, conditions, and relevant concepts.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Medications that reduce stomach acid by blocking the proton pumps in parietal cells.

Antacids

Medications that neutralize stomach acid and provide symptom relief, but do not treat underlying diseases.

H. Pylori

A bacterial infection that can lead to chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Triple Therapy

A first-line treatment for H. Pylori infection, consisting of a PPI, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin.

Quadruple Therapy

A treatment for H. Pylori including a PPI, bismuth, metronidazole, and tetracycline.

Crohn's Disease

An inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the GI tract and is identified by transmural inflammation.

Ulcerative Colitis

An inflammatory bowel disease limited to the colon with inflammation primarily of the mucosa and submucosa.

Diverticulosis

A condition characterized by the presence of diverticula (outpouchings) in the colon.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation or infection of diverticula, often presenting with lower left quadrant pain and systemic signs of infection.

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix, commonly presenting with right lower quadrant pain and requiring surgical removal.

Aminosalicylates

Anti-inflammatory drugs used primarily for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Bioavailability

The proportion of a drug or other substance that enters circulation when introduced into the body and is able to have an active effect.

Perforation

A serious complication where an ulcer or diverticulum ruptures, leading to leakage of contents into the peritoneal cavity.

Fistulas

Abnormal connections that can develop between parts of the gastrointestinal tract, often seen in Crohn's disease.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Considered when patients excessively worry about taking antibiotics and potentially contributing to resistance.

Teratogenicity

The capability of a drug to cause birth defects.

Prokinetic drugs

Medications that enhance gastrointestinal motility, useful in conditions like GERD.