Drugs Used in Gastrointestinal System Disorders Flashcards
Adsorbent
A drug that inhibits gastrointestinal absorption of drugs, toxins, or chemicals by attracting and holding them to its surface.
Anticholinergic
Blocking nerve impulse transmission through the parasympathetic nervous system; also called parasympatholytic. Anticholinergic drugs may be used for the treatment of diarrhea or vomiting.
Chemoreceptor trigger zone (CRTZ)
An area in the brain that activates the vomiting center when stimulated by toxic substances in the blood.
Cholinergic
Activated or transmitted through acetylcholine; also called parasympathomimetic. Cholinergic drugs increase activity in the gastrointestinal tract.
Dentifrice
A preparation for cleansing teeth that is available in a powder, paste, or liquid.
Emesis
The act of vomiting.
Hematemesis
Vomiting of blood (the vomitus often resembles coffee grounds).
Melena
Dark or black stools that result from blood staining. Bleeding has occurred in the anterior part of the gastrointestinal tract.
Motilin
A hormone secreted by cells in the duodenal mucosa that causes contraction of intestinal smooth muscle.
Parietal cell
A cell located in the gastric mucosa that secretes hydrochloric acid.
Peristalsis
A wave of smooth muscle contraction that passes along a tubular structure (gastrointestinal or other) and moves the contents of that structure forward.
Regurgitation
Casting up of undigested or semidigested (ruminant) foodstuff from the esophagus or rumen.
Segmentation
Periodic contriction of segments of the intestine without movement backward or forward; a mixing rather than a propulsive movement.
Vomiting center
An area in the medulla that may be stimulated by the chemoreceptor trigger zone, the cerebrum, or peripheral receptors to induce vomiting.
