Laxatives
This bulk-forming agent must be taken with a full glass of water to prevent obstruction.
What is Psyllium (Metamucil)?
This serotonin (5-HT3) antagonist is commonly used for chemo-induced nausea.
What is Ondansetron (Zofran)?
These drugs neutralize stomach acid quickly and provide symptomatic relief.
What are antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate)?
This drug treats opioid-induced constipation but does not reverse pain relief.
What is Methylnaltrexone (Relistor)?
This common side effect occurs with antihistamine antiemetics and makes driving unsafe.
What is drowsiness?
This stool softener is often given post-op or after MI to prevent straining.
What is Docusate sodium (Colace)?
These dopamine antagonists include promethazine and chlorpromazine.
What are Phenothiazines?
These block H2 receptors and reduce acid secretion in the stomach.
What are H2 blockers (e.g., Ranitidine, Famotidine)?
This oral opioid antagonist is taken on an empty stomach for OIC.
What is Naloxegol (Movantik)?
This is a severe reaction to IV promethazine if it infiltrates the vein.
What is tissue necrosis?
This type of laxative stimulates peristalsis and can cause cramping if overused.
What is a stimulant laxative (e.g., Bisacodyl, Senna)?
This antihistamine is used for motion sickness and vertigo.
What is Meclizine or Dimenhydrinate?
These inhibit the proton pump in parietal cells, reducing gastric acid long-term.
What are PPIs (e.g., Omeprazole, Pantoprazole)?
This effect is why opioid antagonists are used only peripherally in the gut.
What is blocking mu receptors in GI tract without affecting CNS?
Extrapyramidal symptoms include lip smacking and tremors and occur with this drug class.
What are dopamine antagonists (e.g., Metoclopramide, Phenothiazines)?
This osmotic laxative is commonly used for hepatic encephalopathy to reduce ammonia.
What is Lactulose?
This anticholinergic patch is placed behind the ear for motion sickness.
What is Scopolamine?
This drug is a cytoprotective agent often used in ulcers caused by NSAIDs.
What is Sucralfate?
This complication must be ruled out before giving an opioid antagonist.
What is bowel obstruction?
Long-term overuse of stimulant laxatives can cause this.
What is bowel dependence?
This type of enema uses hypertonic sodium phosphate and works within 5–10 minutes.
What is a saline (Fleet) enema?
This prokinetic agent increases GI motility and blocks dopamine in the CTZ.
What is Metoclopramide (Reglan)?
These drugs reduce acid and are often given before meals or at bedtime for GERD.
What are H2 blockers?
Opioid antagonists often produce this bowel effect within a few hours.
What is a bowel movement?
This electrolyte disturbance can occur with repeated osmotic enemas.
What is electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypermagnesemia)?