Gastrointestinal Drugs Flashcards
GI systems defense
NV side effects are called emetogenic
Reflex response to ingestion of harmful substances, sights, smells, and memories
Complications: bleeding, aspiration pneumonia, dehydration and significant weight loss, reopening f surgical wounds, severe acid/base imbalances
Nausea and vomiting
CAM therapies
- Relaxation
- Hypnosis
- Guided imagery
- Acupuncture
- Acupressure
- Music therapy
- Aromatherapy
- Ginger
- Laying down flat
- Sniffing alcohol wipes
Antiemetic that blocks dopamine receptors in the brain
Inhibits signals to vomiting center in medulla
Uses: post-op nausea, vomiting, chemotherapy, radiation sickness
Dopamine Antagonists
Ex: Chlorpromazine (Thorazine), prochlorperazine (Compazine), promethazine (Phenergan), haloperidol (Haldol)
Side effects & adverse effects of promethazine (Phenergan)
Applies to other dopamine antagonists
Side effects: Dry mouth, sedation, constipation, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia
Adverse effects: Extrapyramidal symptoms with prolonged therapy
Antiemetic that blocks serotonin receptors in CTZ, blocks vagal nerve terminals in upper GI tract
More effective when used with dexamethasone
Uses: post-op, chemotherapy
Serotonin Antagonists
Ex: Ondansetron (Zofran), granisetron (Kytril), dolasetron (Anzemet)
Side effects & adverse effects of ondansetron (Zofran)
Side effects: Headache, dizziness, hypotension, palpitations, constipation, edema, fatigue
Misc. antiemetic blocks dopamine receptors in CTZ
Uses: post-op emesis, chemotherapy, radiation therapy
High doses can cause sedation and fatigue
Metoclopramide (Reglan)
Side effects of Metoclopramide (Reglan)
- Drowsiness, fatigue, headache, anticholinergic side effects (constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, tachycardia)
- EPS (involuntary movements)
Nursing interventions for antiemetics
- Provide oral care after vomiting
- Avoid alcohol when taking antiemetics
- Avoid driving motor vehicles or engaging in risky behaviors
- Monitor bowel sounds
- Check vital signs
Antiemetics - Lifespan considerations for pediatrics
- Tardive dyskinesia and other EPS associated with metoclopramide
(Reglan) - Ondanestron doesn’t have CNS effects and may be indicated
Antiemetics - Lifespan considerations for pregnancy & breastfeeding
- Consult with prescriber
- Try diet and lifestyle changes first
Antiemetics - Lifespan considerations for older adults
- More likely to experience side effects (e.g. confusion)
Stimulates CTZ and acts directly on gastric mucosa
Induces vomiting
Emetics
Ex: Ipecac
Type of drug used to ease or stimulate defecation
* Soften the stool
* Increase stool volume
* Hasten fecal passage through the intestine
* Facilitate evacuation from the rectum
* Relieve or prevent constipation
Most not intended for long term use
Laxatives
Classes of laxatives
- Osmotic (saline) laxatives
- Stimulant (irritant) laxatives
- Bulk-forming laxatives
- Emollients (stool softeners)
- Combination preparations
- Lubricants
When should laxatives be avoided?
-S/sx of acute abdomen (severe abd pain, tenderness, fever, rigid abd, guarding)
-Abdominal obstruction
-Appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis
Do not assume its constipation. Get an Xray.
Laxatives that contain electrolyte salts
Hyperosmolar salts pull water into colon and increase water in feces to increase bulk –> stimulates peristalsis and defecation
Produces semi-formed to watery stool
Uses: Bowel prep for diagnostics or surgery
Osmotic (Saline) Laxatives
Ex:
* Sodium salts (sodium phosphate or Phospho-Soda)
* Magnesium salts (magnesium hydroxide [Milk of Magnesia],
magnesium citrate)
Side effects of magnesium hydroxide [Milk of Magnesia]
Fluid & electrolyte imbalances, cramps, NVD, flatulence
Laxatives that irritate sensory nerve endings in intestines, stimulate peristalsis
Irritates mucosa
Uses: opioid induced constipation, slow intestinal transit
Can make constipation worse if used long-term
Stimulant laxatives
Ex: Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Side effects & adverse effects of bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
Side effects: Dizziness, cramps, nausea, diarrhea, potassium and calcium imbalances, reddish/brown urine
Adverse effects: Overuse can decrease tone and sensation in the large intestine (usually reversible)
Laxatives that absorb water into the intestine, increase bulk, and peristalsis
Typically works in 1-3 days
Uses: short term tx, IBS, ileostomy/colostomy
Bulk forming laxatives
Ex: Psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon)