Introduction
Gastrointestinal agents are medications or substances used to treat various conditions and symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
They target different parts of the digestive system, from the esophagus to the colon, addressing issues such as indigestion, acid reflux, constipation, and diarrhea.
Types of Gastrointestinal Agents
1. Antacids:
Function: Neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion.
Common Examples: Calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide.
2. H2 receptor antagonists:
Function: Decrease the production of stomach acid by blocking histamine H2 receptors on the acid-producing cells in the stomach lining.
Common Examples: Ranitidine, cimetidine, famotidine..
3. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs):
Function: Reduce stomach acid production by inhibiting the proton pump in the stomach's acid-producing cells.
Common Examples: Omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole..
4. Laxatives:
Function: Treat constipation by softening the stool, increasing stool volume, or stimulating bowel movements.
Types:
A. Bulk-forming: Psyllium
B. Osmotic: Polyethylene glycol
C. Stimulant: Bisacodyl
D. Stool Softeners: Docusate.
5. Antidiarrheal agents:
Function: Manage diarrhea by reducing stool frequency or consistency.
Common Examples: Loperamide, diphenoxylate with atropine, bismuth subsalicylate.
6. Antiemetic agents:
Function: Prevent and treat nausea and vomiting.
Types:
A. Serotonin 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists: Ondansetron
B. Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists: Metoclopramide
C. Antihistamines: Dimenhydrinate.
7. Prokinetic agents:
Function: Improve gastrointestinal motility by enhancing the coordinated contractions of the GI tract.
Common Examples: Metoclopramide, erythromycin.
8. Antispasmodic agents:
Function: Relieve abdominal pain and cramping by relaxing the smooth muscles of the GI tract.
Common Examples: Dicyclomine, hyoscyamine.
9. Bulk-forming agents:
Function: Normalize bowel movements by adding bulk and water to the stool, making it easier to pass.
Common Examples: Psyllium, methylcellulose.