Gastrointestinal Pharmacology

Question 1

Docusate sodium

Answer 1

A laxative (stool softener) used in the treatment of constipation and painful anorectal conditions such as haemarrhoids and anal fissures.

Question 2

Gaviscon

Answer 2

A non-prescription oral heartburn and GORD treatment. Composed of sodium alginate a bicarbonate and an antacid (calcium carbonate).

Question 3

Glycerine suppositories

Answer 3

Laxative suppository composed of glycerol and gelatin to treatment constipation.

Question 4

Lactulose

Answer 4

Osmotic laxative.

Question 5

Movicol

Answer 5

An iso-osmotic laxative.

Question 6

Phosphate enema

Answer 6

A bowel stimulant normally used in conjunction with bowel imaging.

Question 7

Omeprazole

Answer 7

Proton pump inhibitor used in the treatment of dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease, GORD, laryngopharyngeal reflux and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

T1/2 = 1-1.2 hours

Question 8

Lansoprazole

Answer 8

Proton pump inhibitor used for the treatment of gastric, duodenal and NSAID induced ulcers, H. pylori infection, GORD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

T1/2 = 1-1.5 hours

Question 9

Senna

Answer 9

Stimulant laxative

Question 10

Ranitidine

Answer 10

A histamine H2-receptor antagonist that inhibits stomach acid production commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and GORD. Additionally used in the treatment of certain skin conditions such as hives..

Adverse effects include:

• B12 deficiency
• cardiac disturbances
• hepatic disturbances

T1/2 = 2-3 hours