Introduction GI Path 2

Question 1

Proper Use for constipation meds that cause side effects of constipation

Answer 1

opiates 
anti-cholinergics 
some antidepressents
some anti-psychotics 
CCBs

Question 2

Proper Use for constipation meds to relieve straining to prevent these from getting worse

Answer 2

hernias
hemorrhoids
following abdominal surgery

Question 3

Proper Use for constipation meds to cleanse the bowel

Answer 3

before surgery

before some types of radiological testing or GI endoscopic procedure

Question 4

Major types of laxatives include

Answer 4

Bulk Forming Laxitives/Fiber supplements

Question 5

Bulk forming laxatives are

Answer 5

1st line therapy b/c
gentle, low side effects 
relieve constipation within 12 hours 
hydrophilic 
indigestible
they absorb water to form a bulk to distend the colon, which triggers motility to move the material along - peristalsis 

form bulky, emollient gel that distends the colon

Question 6

Bulk forming laxatives contain

Answer 6

psyllium
methylcellulose
polycarbophil (synthetics)

Question 7

Bulk forming laxatives side effects

Answer 7

flatuelence - because bacteria in large intestine digest the fiber

Question 8

You have to drink lots of water with these types of laxatives

Answer 8

bulk forming

or it can make the constipation worse

Question 9

Surfactant Laxatives

Answer 9

form a lot of film around the stool which helps the stool to retain moisture (prevent hard & dry) - allowing water to easily penetrate the stool

making the stool soften, not increasing motility

Help prevent straining when defecating

Question 10

Surfactant Laxatives can be administered

Answer 10

orally

or rectally (enema)

Question 11

Docusate
Glycerin suppository
Mineral oil

Answer 11

Surfactant Laxatives

Question 12

Surfactant Laxatives take ____ days to worl

Answer 12

1-2 days (mostly the tablets)

Question 13

Docusate is used commonly used

Answer 13

in hospitalized patients
to prevent constipation and minimize straining 
after 
childbirth
surgery

when its important to prevent straining

Question 14

Osmotic laxatives are

Answer 14

either a sugar or salt you can’t absorb

will soften the stool due to the bulk - will stimulate peristalsis

soluble but non-absorbable compounds that result in increased stool liquidity due to an obligate increase in fecal fluid

This not only softens the stool but it also raises intraluminal pressure in the colon