Chapter 38 - Diarrhea

Question 1

Opioid Antidiarrheal Agents

• diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil)

Answer 1

 diphenoxylate with atropine (Lomotil)
 MOA: Diphenoxylate slows peristalsis by acting on the smooth muscles in the intestine
 Use: Diarrhea
 AE: Tachycardia, dizziness, headache, flushing, nausea and vomiting, dry skin and mucous membranes, and urinary retention. Hypotension and respiratory depression have occurred, particularly with doses greater than ordered

Question 2

Bismuth salts

• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

Answer 2

 Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
 MOA: Antibacterial and antiviral activity; antisecretory and possibly anti-inflammatory effects because of its salicylate component.
 Use: Diarrhea
 Patient education: Salt causes a temporary and harmless darkening of the tongue or stool

Question 3

Adjuvant Medications

• polycarbophil (FiberCon)

Answer 3

 polycarbophil (FiberCon)
 Use: Bulk-forming laxatives; occasionally used in diarrhea to absorb toxins and water, decreasing the fluidity of stools