Diarrhea

When you look at agents capable of treating diarrhea, in Europe opiate derivatives are popular treatments. They increase resistance to flow and decrease propulsion. Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can be used for diarrhea, it’s a local acting drug and can be purchased otc, but doesn’t have the power of the opiates. Pure anti-cholinergic drugs, including atropine, reduce contractile activity. There are also gel-forming adsorbants (Kaopectate). Remember, diarrhea can be a serious symptom of a very profound infection of the GI tract. Cholestyramine, an ion-exchange resin, is used as an adjunct in lowering cholesterol. It is also sometimes used in the tx of diarrhea, but not as common as the other classes.

Category: Pharmacology Notes