GIT Lec 3 Pt 3 - Adsorbents,Fluid And Electrolyte Transport Modifiers And Chemotheraputic Agents

Question 1

What are example medications of this class? (Bulking agents)

Answer 1

1. Methyl Cellulose
2. Aluminum hydroxide
3. Ispaghula
   These medications are referred to as bulk forming agents

Question 2

What are the pharmacokinetics of bulk forming medications?

Answer 2

1. Bulk forming medications are indicated for diarrhea caused by diverticular disease and for reducing the fluidity of feces in patients undergoing iliostomy and colostomy.
2. They work by adsorbing toxins and/or microorganisms from the intestines; or by forming a coat that protects the mucosa of the intestine.
3. They are less effective than anti-motility agents and they can interfere with the absorption of some drugs.
4. Fluid absorbents like kaolin are used in the short term treatment of diarrhea, usually accompanied by another drug.

Question 3

What is bismuth subsalicylate used for?

Answer 3

It is used in the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea, and decreases intestinal fluid secretions its mechanism of action is not well understood however it is thought that it induces its actions due to the subsalicylate within it.

Question 4

How do we treat traveler’s diarrhea?

Answer 4

1. Oral rehydration therapy (replacing fluids and electrolytes)
2. Using anti-motility agents like loperamide (first line medication) and Diphenoxylate with atropine for 2-3 days.
3. If the patient is symptomatic; Ciproflaxicin (500mg B.I.D) can be used in the first day; shows relief after one to two tablets.