Learning Objectives
- Identify the classifications and actions of the gastrointestinal system and elimination drugs
- Consider examples of when, how, and to whom gastrointestinal system drugs may be administered
- Identify the side effects and special considerations associated with gastrointestinal system drug therapy
- Identify considerations and implications of using gastrointestinal system medications across the lifespan
- Consider evidence-based concepts when using the nursing process, clinical reasoning, and decision-making related to medications that affect the gastrointestinal system
Key Terms
- adsorption
- antacids
- antidiarrheals
- antimotility medications
- area postrema
- chemoreceptor trigger zone
- constipation
- cytochrome P-450 enzymes
- defecation
- diarrhea
- gastroenteritis
- gastroesophageal reflux disease
- hematemesis
- hypercalcemia
- intrinsic factor
- osmotic agents
- Parietal cells
- pepsin
- peptic ulcer disease
- probiotics
- prokinetic
- proton pump inhibitor
- rebound hyperacidity
- serotonin syndrome
- stimulants
- stool softeners
- stress-related mucosal damage
- stress ulcer prophylaxis
- surface epithelium cells
- THC
- vestibular system
Gastrointestinal complaints are a commonplace occurrence. How many times have you heard someone complaining of an upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea? Occasionally, these ailments will go away on their own, but if they do not, there are a variety of medications that can be used to treat the disease or symptom. Treatment can involve both the use of prescription and nonprescription drug therapy, in addition to nonpharmacological interventions. In this chapter, you will learn about medications used to treat common disorders within the gastrointestinal system.
The adhesion of molecules to a surface. For example, bismuth salicylate coats the walls of the GI tract and binds the causative bacteria or toxin for elimination from the GI tract through the stool.
Used to neutralize stomach acid and reduce the symptoms of heartburn.
Relieve the symptoms of diarrhea, such as an increased frequency and urgency when passing stools, but do not eliminate the cause of it.
Medications that help to treat diarrhea by slowing peristalsis.
A structure in the medulla oblongata in the brainstem that controls vomiting. Its location in the brain also allows it to play a vital role in the control of autonomic functions by the central nervous system.
Area in the brain that responds directly to toxins in the bloodstream and stimulates the vomiting center. The CTZ receives stimuli from several other locations in the body.
Three or fewer bowel movements in a week; stools that are hard, dry or lumpy; stools that are difficult or painful to pass; or the feeling that not all stool has passed.
Enzymes produced from the cytochrome P450 genes involved in the formation (synthesis) and breakdown (metabolism) of various molecules, chemicals, and medications within cells.
The digestive process where undigested materials are removed from the body as feces.
The passage of three or more loose or liquid stools per day (or more frequent passage than is normal for the individual).
Infection of the intestines.
Caused by excessive hydrochloric acid that tends to back up, or reflux, into the lower esophagus.
Blood in the vomit.
Elevated levels of calcium in the bloodstream.
Necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.
Cause water to be retained with the stool, increasing the number of bowel movements and softening the stool so it is easier to pass.
cells in the gastric glands that produce and secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and intrinsic factor
A digestive enzyme.
Occurs when gastric or duodenal ulcers are caused by the breakdown of GI mucosa by pepsin in combination with the caustic effects of hydrochloric acid.
Used for the prevention and treatment of diarrhea by restoring normal bacteria flora in the gastrointestinal tract.
Medications used to promote peristalsis to empty the gastrointestinal tract and reduce nausea.
Binds to the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme system of the parietal cell and inhibit the release of hydrogen ions into the stomach.
A side effect of medication causing elevated levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach after the medication is discontinued.
Symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome may include the following combination of signs and symptoms: mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, with or without gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
Laxatives that cause the intestines to contract, inducing stool to move through the colon.
Laxatives that facilitate movement of water and fats into stool to make it soft and improve regularity of bowel movements.
A common condition in hospitalized patients that can lead to PUD.
Medication to prevent the formation of stress ulcers.
Cells found within the lining of the stomach that secrete mucus as a protective coating.
Tetrahydrocannabinoids found in marijuana.
An area located within the inner ear that gives a sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement with balance.