Gastrointestinal Drugs and Medications Q 22
Which of the following categories is used for diarrhea and constipation?
A. Bulk-forming agents
B. Intestinal flora modifiers
C. Cascara
D. Milk of Magnesia
Correct Answer: A. Bulk-forming agents
Bulk-forming agents are used for diarrhea and constipation. Bulk-forming agents will not produce rapid cleansing. Bulk-forming laxatives absorb liquid in the intestines. This creates a bulky, more liquid-like stool that’s softer and easier to pass. Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil), polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). Bulk-forming laxatives are different from these laxatives. They’re most similar to stool softeners in that they help the bowels retain water. Unlike stimulant laxatives, they don’t stimulate nerves that speed up the movement of bowels through the intestines. They also don’t lubricate the stools like lubricant laxatives do. Osmotic laxatives differ from bulk-forming types by helping the intestines — not the bowels — retain water.
Option B: Probiotics are usually defined as products which contain viable non-pathogenic microorganisms able to confer health benefits to the host. There are specific gastrointestinal effects of probiotics such as alleviating inflammatory bowel disease, reducing acute diarrhoea in children, inhibiting Salmonella and Helicobacter pylori, removing cholesterol, secreting enzymes and bacteriocins and immunomodulation.
Option C: Cascara sagrada used to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug for constipation. Cascara sagrada contains chemicals that stimulate the bowel and have a laxative effect.
Option D: This medication is used for a short time to treat occasional constipation. It is a laxative (osmotic-type) that is thought to work by drawing water into the intestines, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. This medication is also used to treat symptoms caused by too much stomach acid such as heartburn, upset stomach, or indigestion. It is an antacid that works by lowering the amount of acid in the stomach.