Drug Classifications
What class of medications does omeprazole belong to?
Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)
How do proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work?
Block & prevents production/secretion of gastric acid
What is a major side effect of PPIs with long-term use?
Increased risk of osteoporosis and C. difficile infections.
When should omeprazole be taken for best effect?
30-60 minutes before the first meal of the day.
Which medication is most effective for motion sickness: ondansetron, loperamide, or scopolamine?
Scopolamine.
What class of GI medications does sucralfate belong to?
Mucosal Protectant
How does sucralfate help heal ulcers?
It forms a protective barrier over ulcers by binding to damaged mucosa
What common side effect does sucralfate cause?
Constipation.
What should patients do after taking psyllium to prevent worsening constipation?
Drink plenty of water.
What is the first-line treatment for H. pylori infections?
Triple therapy with a PPI, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin.
Name a bulk-forming laxative used for constipation.
Psyllium (Metamucil)
How does psyllium treat constipation?
It absorbs water into the stool, increasing bulk and promoting bowel movements
What is a major contraindication for using scopolamine?
Glaucoma (can increase intraocular pressure).
What should patients avoid when taking scopolamine patches?
Touching their eyes after handling the patch (can cause pupil dilation)
Which laxative is safest for long-term use?
Bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium.
What type of medication is diphenoxylate/atropine (Lomotil)?
Antidiarrheal (Opioid Derivative)
How does diphenoxylate/atropine work to stop diarrhea?
Diphenoxylate slows intestinal motility, while atropine prevents misuse by causing unpleasant side effects at high doses.
Why should aluminum hydroxide antacids be used cautiously in patients with kidney disease?
Risk of aluminum accumulation leading to toxicity.
How should sucralfate be taken in relation to other medications?
Take on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, and separate from other meds by at least 2 hours.
Which antacid should be avoided in patients with a history of kidney stones?
Calcium-based antacids (e.g., Tums).
Which GI medication belongs to the anticholinergic class and is used for motion sickness?
Scopolamine
What is the mechanism of action of scopolamine in preventing motion sickness?
Interferes with impulses from the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear to the vomiting center in the brain
Why is cimetidine not commonly used compared to other H2 blockers?
It has many drug interactions and can cause gynecomastia.
Why should patients taking diphenoxylate/atropine avoid alcohol?
It can enhance CNS depression and drowsiness.
What GI medication can cause breast enlargement in men?
Cimetidine.