OTC Flashcards
Which formulation works better in dyspepsia?
In genral, liquids are more effective, easier to take, work quicker, have greater neutralising capacity and have larger SA.
When is the best time to take antacids for food related dyspepsia?
An hour after a meal because rate of gastric emptying has slowed thefore the antacid will remain in the stomach for longer, the difference is 3 hours of action compared to 30min-1h if taken before meals
Sodium bicarbonate preparations are very effective however what should you caution with when selling this preparation?
Avoid in sodium restricted patients (HF, kidney/liver problems) Increases excretion of lithium.
Many products contain both aluminium and magnesium salts, why is this?
Aluminium can cause constipation, magnesium acts as a laxative therefore they cancel each other out. Mg salts are more potent acid neutralisers than aluminium.
What is the MOA of magnesium laxative properties?
From insoluble mg salts acting as an osmotic laxative
Long term calcium carbonate is not recommended because__
Can cause acid rebound and hypercalaemia in high doses, if used alongside sodium bicrbonate can cause milk-alkali syndrome causing metabolic alkalosis and renal insufficiency.
What are the problem of antacids on absorption of medication
As they increase PH, they can interfere with enteric coated tablets, early release can inactivate the drug or cause ADR’s in the stomach. To minimise risk take an hour apart of antacid. Can affect a long list of drugs! Antibiotcs, antifungals, ACEi, Iron.
What red flags should you look out for in mouth ulcers?
Unexpected, lasting longer than 3 weeks
How does chlorhexidine mouthwash help in ulcers?
Reduces the risk of secondary infection of the ulcer which can increase discomfort and delay healing, can cause teeth browning but not permanent, brush teeth then rinse before using the mouthwash.
When should you refer a pt if OTC treatment for heartburn doesnt work?
After 2 weeks
What lifestyle factors can help to relieve heartburn?
Weight reduction, small frequent meals not huge meals and avoid aggravating foods, better posture not lying down after a meal, avoid tight constricting clothes,avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine
What causes motion sickness?
Confliction between your senses, the vestibular system act like a balance and can sense you being unbalanced but your eyes are telling you something different.
What are the SE of motion sickness medication (anticholinergics)?
Dry mouth, drowsiness, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention. UNlikely to do so in the low OTC doses
What conditions should you not supply antisickness medication to?
Prostatic hyperplasia due to urinary retention and glaucoma as may increase IOP pressure.
