UNIT 5: DRUGS ACTING ON
THE INTESTINAL
TRACT
PRESENTED BY: Sr.MUSHILI
GENERAL OBJECTIVE
• At the end of the lecture student nurses should be
able to acquire sufficient knowledge on Drugs Acting
on the Intestinal Tract
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE
• At the end of this unit student nurses should be
able to describe:
1. Antiacids
2. Emetics
3. Anti-emetics
4. Anticholinergic agents
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE
5. Laxatives and Purgatives
6. Anti-diarrheals
7. Suppositories
8. Rectal infusions
9. Antihelminthics
10. Drugs used in the treatment of Schistosomiasis
DEFINATION OF ANTACID
ANTACIDS
• These are over the counter medication that can
be used alone or with other drugs to treat peptic
ulcers disease
MODE OF ACTION
•The acid-neutralising action of antacids
reduces the amount of hydrochloric acid load
in the GIT by changing gastric Ph to neutral,
which allows peptic ulcer to heal.
•Because pepsin acts effectively in an acid
medium, antacids also reduce its activity.
•Antacids do not coat peptic ulcers or the
lining of the GIT
EXAMPLES OF GENERAL ANTACIDS
1. Aluminium Hydroxide
2. Magnesium Carbonate
3. Magnesium Trisilicate
4. Simeticone
5. Calcium carbonate
ALUMINIUM HYDROXIDE
Presentation: Tablet of 250mg
Indication: Dyspepsia
Dose: Adult and children over 14 years: 250mg to
1000mg, 3 – 4 times daily Children: 125mg/5ml 3
– 4 times daily.
Side Effects: Constipation, Renal impairment
especially when the kidneys are not functioning
well and Fluid retention
ALUMINIUM HYDROXIDE
Contraindications: Neonates and infants
Nursing Implication
• Do not give other medications within 1 to 2 hours
of antacids administration because antacids
impair the absorption of many other drugs
• Monitor the patient for constipation and
encourage the patient to take a lot of fluids
MAGNESIUM TRISILICATE
Presentation: Tablet of 500mg
Indications: Dyspepsia
Dose: Adult and children over 14 years: 250mg
to 1000mg, 3 – 4 times daily
• Children: 125mg/5ml 3 – 4 times daily.
Side Effects: Diarrhoea ,Belching and flatulence
due to liberated carbon dioxide
MAGNESIUM TRISILICATE
CONTRAINDICATIONS
• Renal impairment, Hepatic impairment
NURSING IMPLICATION
• Monitor patient for any signs dehydration
because of diarrhoea
• Monitor patient with renal function as this drug
interferes with function
H2-RECEPTOR ANTAGONIST
• These drugs H2-Receptor antagonists heal gastric
and duodenal ulcers by reducing gastric output as
a result of Histamine H2 receptor blockade.
MODE OF ACTION
• They block the stimulant action of histamine on
the acid-secreting parietal cells of the stomach.
• Acid-secretion in the stomach depends on the
binding of gastrin, acetylcholine and histamine to
their respective receptors on the parietal cells.
• If the binding of any of these substances is
blocked, acid-secretion is reduced.
• Thus by binding with H2-Receptor antagonist,
acid-secretion is reduced.
EXAMPLE OF H2 RECEPTOR
ANTAGONIST
•Cimetidine
•Ranitidine
•Famotidine
•Nizatidine
CIMETIDINE
Indication: Gastric and duodenal ulceration,
Stomach ulcer, Reflux Esophagitis, Reduction of
gastric acid secretion
Dose: 400mg twice daily (with breakfast and at
night) or 800mg at night
Side Effects: Alopecia, Tachycardia, Interstitial
nephritis, Diarrhoea, Headache ,Impotence, Loss
of libido
CIMETIDINE
Contraindication : Hepatic Impairment, Renal
impairment, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding
Nursing Implication
• Monitor patient renal function as these drugs
tend to interfere with renal function.
• Monitor hydration if the patient develops
diarrhoea. Obtain a prescription for an ant
diarrhoea agent, as needed.
PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS (PPIs)
• These inhibit gastric acid secretion by blocking
the hydrogen-potassium Adenosine
triphosphatase enzyme system (Proton pump) of
the parietal cells
MOA: These block the action of H+/K+ Adenosine
Triphosphatase in the parietal cells of the
stomach.
EXAMPLES OF PROTON-PUMP
INHIBITORS DRUGS
• Omeprazole
• Lansoprazole
• Rabeprazole
• Pantoprazole
• Esomeprazole
OMEPRAZOLE
Presentation: Oral capsule containing 10mg, 200mg,
and 40mg Injectable
Indication: Short term treatment of active benign
gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, erosive esophagitis and
gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• They may be used in combination with antibiotics for
treatment of active peptic ulcers associated with H.
pylori infection
Dose: Adults 20 – 40mg once or twice daily
OMEPRAZOLE
Side Effects; Diarrhoea, Headache, Dry mouth, Peripheral
oedema, Dizziness , Fatigue, Hypersensitivity reactions
Nursing Implication
• Monitor hydration if the patient develops diarrhoea.
• Obtain a prescription for an ant diarrhoea agent, as needed
• Consult the physician or primary health care provider about
discontinuing if diarrhoea becomes severe.
PROSTAGLANDIN ANALOGUES
MISOPROSTOL
Presentation: Tablets containing 200mcg
Indication: Prevention of NSAIDs induces gastric ulcers
in patients at high risk for complications resulting from
gastric ulcers.
• Treatment and prevention of peptic ulcers
Dose: 200mcg four times daily with food.
MISOPROSTOL
Side Effects: Diarrhoea, Abdominal pain, Uterine
contractions, Menstrual disorders, Miscarriages in
pregnancy.
Contraindication: Pregnancy
Nursing Implication: Administer this drug with food.
• Do not administer Misoprostol in pregnancy as it may
cause miscarriages.
EMETICS
• They are drugs that induce vomiting and are divided into 2 groups.
REFLEX EMETICS: These induce vomiting by irritating the stomach
e.g. warm salt water, mustard one tea spoon to one pint of warm
milk.
CENTRAL EMETICS: these induce vomiting by irritating the vomiting
centre (Chemorecepter trigger zone) direct in the brain e.g. apple
morphine.
N/B they are rarely used.
INDICATIONS
• In poisoning when gastric lavage is not possible (Avoid in corrosive
chemicals)
• Acute indigestion due to excessive constipation of food.
• Classified as local irritants, Reflex emetics ( producing vomiting
reflexes) and central emetics (chemoreceptor trigger zone)
ANTIEMETICS
• These are drugs (agents) that prevent or relieve nausea and
vomiting that can result from various factors as indicated below:
• Surgery
• Vestibular disorders
• Poisoning etc.
Mechanism of action
• Phenothiazine derivatives are dopamine antagonists and act
centrally by blocking the chemoreceptor trigger zone.
• Antiemetics should be prescribed only when the cause of
vomiting is known particularly in children. Otherwise the
symptomatic relief that they produce may delay or mask
diagnosis.
ANTIEMETICS
• Examples of antiemetic drugs
• Metoclopromide E (Plasil, Maxolon)
• Is an effective antiemetic and has positive effect on GIT motility and
gastric peristalsis is increased leading to an increase in the gastric
emptying rate.
• Mechanism of action
• Blockade of dopamine receptors centrally on the chemoreceptor
trigger zone (a part of the brain which when stimulated by
neurotransmitter dopamine evokes vomiting).
• Indications: Nausea and vomiting, particularly in gastro-
intestinal disorders or during treatment with cytotoxic drugs
• Presentation: tablets 5mg and 10mg, Mixture 5mg/ml and
Injection 5mg/ml
ANTIEMETICS
• Dose:
• Adult; 10mg tid before meals or 10mg IM or IV, 10mg t.i.d 1-2 min after vomiting, 5mg t.i.d in young adults
(15-19yrs)
•
• Children up to 1yr (up to 10kg) 0.5mg t.i.d.
• 1-3yrs (10-14kg) 1mg t.i.d
• 3-5yrs (15-19kg) 2mg 2-3 times daily
• 5-9yrs (20-29kg) 2.5mg t.i.d
• 9-14yrs (30kg and above) 5mg t.i.d
• Side effects
• Extrapyramidal symptoms especially in children.
• Mutism
• Hypokinesia
• Tardive dyskinesia (involving movements)
• Chewing,Tongue protrusion,Tremors of limbs
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhoea,Constipation, drowsiness, nystagmus.
• Contraindications: Pregnancy, undiagnosed nausea and vomiting especially in children and young adults.
ANTIEMETICS
• Nursing implications
• 1. Never the mix the drug with penicllins, sodium bicarbonate,
cephalosporins and calcium gluconate due to imcompatibility.
• 2. Assess for extrapyramidal effects such tardive dyskinesia,
rigidity, grimacing, shuffling gait etc.
• 3. Assess mental status for symptoms of depression, anxiety
and irritability during treatment
ANTIEMETICS
• Phenothiazines
• Drugs which include chlopromazine (lagactil), prochlorperazine, trifluoperazine,
perphenazine, are used for symptomatic relief of nausea from underlined disease.
• Mechanism of action
• Phenothiazines are dopamine antagonists and act centrally by blocking the
chemoreceptor trigger zone. They are of value for prophylaxis and treatment of
nausea and vomiting associated with cancer diseases, radiation sickness emesis,
cytotoxic and genaral anaesthetics.
• Nursing implication s for phenothiazines
• 1. Assess respiratory status i.e. rate. Rythym, increase in bronchial secretions,
wheezing, chest tightness and provide fluid 1-2l /day to decrease secretion
thickness.
• 2. Monitor intake and output and look out for urinary retention.
• 3. Monitor FBC during long term therapy as blood dyscrasia may occur.
•
ANTIEMETICS
• Examples of phenothiazines
• Promethazine (Phenergan)
• Presentation: tablet containing 10mg, 25mg and injectable
containing 5mg/5mls
• Action: as above but also acts as an antihistamine, antiemetic
and sedative
• Indication: Various allergic conditions, nausea, & vomiting
• Dose: 25 - 75 mg p.o., I.M. every 4-6 hours, 25 mg I.V.
• Side Effects: Dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsy
• Contraindications: Liver Disease
ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS
• These drugs are anti-spasmodic and are used in
combination with anti-acids to treat peptic ulcers. Anti-
spasmodic drugs reduce spasms of GIT myos, there use
in the treatment of peptic ulcers is not helpful unless in
large doses.
• Mechanism of action
• These drugs reduce gastric secretions and mortality by
blocking the action of parasympathetic nervous system
and largely dependent on the stimulation of
parasympathetic nerve which controls the motility of
the GIT.
• Side effects of anti-cholinergics
• Dry mouth
• Dilatation of pupils
• Blurred vision
• Heart palpitation
• Dry skin
• Dizziness
• confusion
• constipation
• urinary retention
ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS
•Nursing implications for
anticholinergics
•Atropine should never be given to patients
with intraocular lenses.
•Monitor intake and output and be particular
with urinary retention.
•Monitor ECG for ectopic ventricular beats.
•Monitor bowel sound and note constipation
ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS
• Examples of anticholinergics
• Atropin
• Presentation: Injection containing 0.05, 0.1, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.8 and
1mg/ml.
• Action: as above
• Indication: used for patient with irritable bowel syndrome and dysphasia.
• Dose: IM 0.4 – 0.6mg, qid in adults, 0.01mg/kg in children, 4 – 6
times/day.
• Side effect: headache, hypotension, dry mouth, GIT disturbances,
anorexia, vomiting and diarrhoea. Dry mouth, low urine out, dry eyes.
• Caution: renal disease, gastric ulcers, hyperthyroidism etc.
• Contraindications: hypersensitivity to belladonna alkaloids, GIT
obstruction, asthma etc.
ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS
• Buscopan (hyosine bromide)
• Presentation: tablet containing 10mg or injection containing 20mg/ml
• Indication: GIT spasms
• Dose: When used in diagnostic purposes like in endoscopy adult 20mg
qid. Children 10mg tid. Dose in patients with acute spasms of GIT is given
20mg IV.
• Side effects: drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty in
micturation.
• Caution: elderly, urinary retention, cardiovascular disease, GIT obstruction,
hepatic and renal impairment, porphyria and breastfeeding.
• Contraindications: closed angle glaucoma, hypersensitivity, and children
under 6 years because they are more sensitive to it.
• Other drugs in the group include probantine bromide, methoscoplolamine
bromide
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Laxatives and purgative can beb classified into various categories.
• Bulky forming laxatives
• These drugs loosen the bowels thereby promoting evacuation as a
result of soft formed stool.
• They act by retaining water in the colon thus increasing stool bulk
and stimulating bowel movements to produce soft stool e.g. spagila
husk and bran. They are neither digested nor absorbed
• They should be taken with plenty of fluids. Failure to do so may
result in faecal impaction or intestinal obstruction. They take about
2-3 days to exert an effect.
• Contra-Indications: generally these drugs are not to be given in
anal fissure, proctitis and ulcerative colitis and haemorrhoids
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Liquid paraffin
• Indications: Chronic constipation and painful ano-rectal
conditions
• Dose: Adults; 10-30ml
• Side-Effects: Seepage from anus and perianal irritation after
prolonged use.
• Stimulant laxatives
• These act by stimulating the nerve endings of the nerve plexus
in the gut wall, causing irritation and increased peristalsis in
small and large bowels.
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Senna glycosides(Senokot)
• Takes several hours to act (8-12 hrs).
• Presentation; 7.5mg
• Action: Promotes fluid accumulation. Used for
preparation for delivery, surgery,rectal and bowel
examination.
•
• Indication: constipation, bowel evacuation before
abdominal radiological procedures, endoscopy, surgery
etc.
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Bisacodyl (dulcolax)
• Presentation: 10mg, 5mg tablets and
suppositories
• Action: acts directly on intestines by increasing
motor activity; thought to irritate colonic
intramural plexus; and increase water retention in
the colon.
• The drug is best given at night to encourage
bowel action. Suppositories act more rapidly
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Please take Note:
• Stimulant laxatives increase intestinal motility and often cause
abdominal cramps.
• They should not be used in intestinal obstruction. They cause
smooth muscle atony in the colon and potassium loss.
• Contraindications:
• The drug should not be given in patients with the following:
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pains faecal impaction and intestinal
obstruction.
• Nursing considerations.
• Give with caution in patients with rectal bleeding.
LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES
• Saline Purgatives (Emollient Purgatives)
• Mechanism of action
• These lubricate the GIT by retaining fluids within bowels lumen resulting in
soft stool and stimulating peristalsis. The osmotic purgatives act by
osmosis i.e. the osmotic pressure of salt in solution retains sufficient fluids
within the gut which should be isotonic with body fluids.
• Examples of saline purgatives
• Magnesium sulphate ( Epsom salt)
• Is a typical saline purgative and has a bitter taste and may be given with
orange juice.
• Caution
• Use with caution in elderly and renal impairment. Other mild purgatives
include; magnesium citrate and magnesium hydroxide.
ANTI-DIARRHEALS
• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Presentation: 2mg capsule
•
• It is a sympathetic agent which bears some chemical structure
resemblance to morphine and probably reduces bowel motility
in a similar way.
• Mechanism of action
• Probably by reducing the effects of acetylcholine on gut
receptors on the circular and longitudinal muscles of the
intestinal wall and this reduces peristaltic activity.
ANTI-DIARRHEALS
• Loperamide (Imodium)
• Presentation: 2mg capsule
• It is a sympathetic agent which bears some chemical structure
resemblance to morphine and probably reduces bowel motility
in a similar way.
• Mechanism of action
• Probably by reducing the effects of acetylcholine on gut
receptors on the circular and longitudinal muscles of the
intestinal wall and this reduces peristaltic activity.
ANTI-DIARRHEALS
• Indication
• Adjunct in the management of acute non-specific diarrhoea and
chronic diarrhoea with dehydration.
• Used in inflammatory bowel disease.
Dose: Initial dose of 4mg followed by 2mg after each loose
stool. Do not exceed a daily dose of 16mg.
Side effects: Abdominal cramps, skin reactions, anticholinergic
effects, respiratory depression, euphoria, numbness of the
extremities, nausea and vomiting.
Caution: do not use in children under 4 years.
SUPPOSITORIES
• Definition: They are solid preparations each containing one or more
medicaments.
• They are usually administered for single dose as local action or systemic
absorption in disease treatment.. The shape, volume and consistence of
suppositories are such that the preparation is suitable for rectal
administration.
• Suppositories usually weigh between 1-4g.
• The medicament is dispensed in a suitable base which may melt at
suitable temperature (body temperature). Suppositories may be kept in a
well closed place and stored at temperatures not exceeding more than
30*c, usually refrigerated.
•
• Anal, perineal pruritis, sores and excoriation are best treated by
application of ointments and suppositories. These conditions occur in
patients suffering from hemorrhoids, fistula and proctitis.
SUPPOSITORIES
• Anusol (Bismuth Subgallate)
• Presentation: suppositories and cream.
• Indication: symptomatic relief of haemorrhoids.
• Dose: insert 1 suppository at night and in the
morning and after defecation. Patient is advised
to clear anal region with warm water and soap.
Apply cream twice a day.
SUPPOSITORIES
• Proctosedyl
• Presentation: suppositories and contains
cinchocaine hydrocortisone.
• Indication: haemorrhoids.
• Dose: insert 1 suppository at night, 1 in the
morning and repeat after a bowel movement.
RECTAL INFUSIONS
• Enemas
• These are aqueous or oily solutions or
suspensions for rectal administration.
• They are given for their anthelminthic, anti-
inflammatory, nutritive, purgative or sedative
effects or for x-ray examination of the lower
bowels. Retention enemas should be inserted
after defecation
RECTAL INFUSIONS
• They should be administered slowly with the
patient lying on one side.
• The patient should lie in prone position to retain
the enema for at least 30min to allow distribution
and absorption of the medicament.
• Large volume enemas should be warmed to body
temperatures before administration.
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• These are drugs used to treat diseases caused by
worms.
• Mode of action
• These drugs are generally called benzimidazoles.
They act by binding to tubulin, preventing its
polymerisation into cytoskeletal microtubules. The
effect is selective for parasitic tubulin and the
drugs are active against the adults, larvae and
eggs.
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Mebendazole (vermox)
• Presentation: tablet containing 100mg and suspension
500mg/5ml
• Indications: in trichuris trichura (whipworm), enterobius
vermicularis (pinworm), threadworms, ascaris lumbricoides
(roundworm), and ancylostoma duodenal (common
hookworm).
• Dose: threadworm adult and child over 2 years 100mg
single dose, whipworm adult and child over 2 years 100mg
twice daily for 3 days or 500mg single dose, roundworm
adult and child 100mg twice daily for 3 days, hookworm
adult 100mg daily for 3 days.
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Side effects: abdominal pain, diarrhoea, hypersensitivity
reactions- erythema, rash, urticarial and angioedema
• Caution: pregnancy especially in first trimester, breastfeeding,
safety in children less than 2 years not established.
• Contraindications: hypersensitivity.
• Nursing Implications
• Initiate second course of treatment if cure does not occur within
3 week.
• Examine and treat all family members simultaneously because
pinworms are readily transmitted from person to person.
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Albendazole
• Presentation: 200 mg tablets
• Actions: Albendazole is a broad-spectrum oral anthelmintic agent. It
is the only anthelmintic drug active against all stages of the helminth
life cycle (ova, larvae, and adult worms). Its mechanism of action is
unclear, but it appears to cause selective degeneration of
cytoplasmic microtubules in the intestinal cells of the helminths and
larvae. In general Albendazole ultimately causes decreased ATP
production in the helminths, resulting in energy depletion, which kills
the worms.
• Indications: Treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by the larval
form of pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), hydatid disease caused by
the larval form of dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus).
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• DOSE
• Neurocysticercosis
Adult/Child:PO>6 y, weight <60 kg, 15 mg/kg/d divided b.i.d.
for 8–30 d cycle (max: 800 mg/d); weight 60 kg, 400 mg b.i.d.
for 8–30 d cycle
• Hydatid Disease
• Adult/Child:PO>6 y, weight <60 kg, 15 mg/kg/d divided b.i.d.
(max: 800 mg/d); weight 60 kg, 400 mg b.i.d. for 28 d cycle
(then 14 d without drug & repeat regimen for 3 cycles)
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Side Effects: Hypersensitivity reactions. CNS:Headache,
dizziness, vertigo, increased intracranial pressure, meningeal
signs, alopecia (reversible), fever. GI:Abnormal liver function
tests, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting. Hematologic: (Rare)
Reversible leukopenia, granulocytopenia, pancytopenia,
agranulocytosis. Skin: Rash, urticaria.
•
• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the benzimidazole class
of compounds or any components of albendazole; pregnancy
(category C).
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Nursing Implications
• Lab tests: Monitor WBC count, absolute neutrophil count, and liver
function tests at start of each 28-d cycle and q2wk during cycle.
• Withhold drug and notify physician if WBC count falls below normal
or liver enzymes are elevated.
• Note: Patients should be concurrently treated with appropriate
steroid and anticonvulsant therapy.
• Give with meals. Absorption is significantly increased with a fatty
meal.
• Do not exceed maximum total daily dose of 800 mg.
• Store at 20°–25° C (68°–77° F).
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Piperazine
• Presentation: syrup 750mg/5mls, oral powder 4g
• Mechanism of action
• The drug competitively inhibits the effect of acetylcholine on the
smooth muscle of worm, producing a reversible flaccid paralysis.
• The only piperazine treatment available is pripsen powder sachets
which is piperazine combined with a mild laxative (senna).
Piperazine works by paralysing the worms which are then evacuated
by the laxative action of the senna. A second dose of Piperazine is
given after 14 days to ensure that any worms that were unhatched
at the time of the first dose will be cleared from the system. Pripsen
Powders are the only drug treatment for threadworms which can be
given to children under the age of two years old (from 3 months of
age).
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Indications: threadworm and roundworm
• Dose: threadworms stirred in milk/water adult and child 6years
and above content of 1 sachet as a single dose at bed time
repeated after 14 days. In roundworms same dose as for
threadworms and repeated at monthly intervals for 3 months.
• Side effects: nausea, vomiting, colic, diarrhoea, local spasms,
colonic contractions in patient with neurological or renal
abnormalities.
ANTIHELMINTHICS
• Pyrantel Pamoate (Combantrin)
• Presentation: 125mg tabs, 250mg/5ml suspension.
• Indication: hookworms, round worms, thread worms.
• Action; Paralyses worms and dislodges them from the GIT
• Dose: 5mg-10mg per kg bwt. For hook worms repeat on 3
consecutive days. Children of up to 2 years give 1 tab or 2.5mls
suspension as a single dose. 9-17 years, 4 tabs or 10ml suspension.
• Side effects: GIT upset, headache, dizziness.
• Contraindication. Not to be given with piperazine and in
pregnancy.
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• These are drugs used in the treatment of
schistosomiasis commonly known as bilharzia.
• Mode of action
• These are known to interfere with Calcium
homeostasis in the parasite causing muscular
paralysis and increasing cell membrane
permeability or they increase the cell permeability
to calcium in Schistosomes, causing strong
contractions and paralysis of worm musculature
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• Praziquantel (Biltricide)
• Presentation: Tablet containing 600mg
• Mechanism of action: as above
• Indications: schistosoma japonicum, haematobium and mansoni
• Dose: S. haematobium and mansoni adult 40mg/Kg body weight.
S.japonicum 60mg/Kg body weight
• Side effects: malaise, headache, dizziness, abdominal discomfort
with nausea, rarely urticarial.
• Caution: safety in children under 4 not established.
• Contraindications: hypersensitivity.
• Nursing implications
• Tablets can be halved or quartered
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• Oxaminiquine (vansil)
• Presentation: capsule containing 250mg.
• Mechanism of action: as above
• Indications: All stages of Schistosoma mansoni infection, including
acute and chronic phases with hepatosplenic involvement.
• Dose: oral 15mg/Kg in adults and 10-15mg/Kg in children
• Side effects: CNS:Transitory dizziness, drowsiness, headache;
persistent fever (in patients being treated in Egypt); EEG
abnormalities, convulsions (rare). GI: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal pain, elevated liver enzyme concentrations.
Hematologic: Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate,
reticulocyte count, and increased or decreased leukocyte count.
Skin: Urticaria. Urogenital: Red-orange urine.
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• Contraindications: safe use during pregnancy (category C), lactation, or
in children is not established.
• Caution: history of convulsions.
• Nursing Implications
• Supervise ambulation and use other safety precautions because >30% of
patients experience dizziness or drowsiness.
• If patient has a history of seizures, the possibility of seizures is increased
because of drug action (occurs within hours of drug administration).
• Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness
because drug can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
• Be aware that drug may change the normal urine colour to a harmless
orange-red.
• Do not breast feed while taking this drug without consulting physician.
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• Metrifonate (Bilarcil)
• Presentation: tablet containing
• Action: the drug is an organophosphorus cholinesterase
inhibitor that results into schistosomicide action.
• Indication: S. haematobium
• Dose: 7.5-10mg/kg once after a 2 week interval in 3 does
• Side effects: mild Git disturbance, abdominal pain, diarrhoea,
flatulence, nausea, leg cramps and slight decrease in heart rate
and vertigo.
DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT
OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS
• Contraindications: GIT, heart and glaucoma disorders
• Overdosage (antidote): Atropine sulfate (for adults, 1 mg every 6
hours) may be used as a specific antidote to relieve symptoms of
cholinergic activity. This does not impair the antiparasitic action.
• Nursing implications
• Metrifonate tablets should be kept in tightly closed containers and
stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C, preferably in a
refrigerator.
• Discoloured tablets should be discarded.
• Avoid drug in pregnancy as the drug is teratogenic or embryotoxic
• Not to given to breastfeeding mother as drug is excreted in breast
milk.
References
• Bertram G. K,.etal (2010).Basic & Clinical Pharmacology.10th
Edition.California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0450.
Ben. G., etal. (2013) Trounce’s Clinical Pharmacology for Nurses.18th
Edition. Edinburgh: Churchill, Livingstone
• Greenstein B. (2013), Trounce’s Clinical Pharmacology for
nurses, 18th Edition, Elsevier Limited, Churchill Livingstone.
• Ministry of Health. (2013). Zambia National Formulary. Ndeke
House. Lusaka
• Skidmore-Roth. L. (2007); Mosby’s Drug Guide for Nurses 7th Ed,
Mosby Elsevier. St Louis Missouri.
• WHO (2014 ) Essential Medicines and Health Products .Last updated:
December 20, 2014
THE END

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UNIT 5 DRUGS ACTING ON INTESTINAL TRACT-1.pptx

  • 1. UNIT 5: DRUGS ACTING ON THE INTESTINAL TRACT PRESENTED BY: Sr.MUSHILI
  • 2. GENERAL OBJECTIVE • At the end of the lecture student nurses should be able to acquire sufficient knowledge on Drugs Acting on the Intestinal Tract
  • 3. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE • At the end of this unit student nurses should be able to describe: 1. Antiacids 2. Emetics 3. Anti-emetics 4. Anticholinergic agents
  • 4. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE 5. Laxatives and Purgatives 6. Anti-diarrheals 7. Suppositories 8. Rectal infusions 9. Antihelminthics 10. Drugs used in the treatment of Schistosomiasis
  • 5. DEFINATION OF ANTACID ANTACIDS • These are over the counter medication that can be used alone or with other drugs to treat peptic ulcers disease
  • 6. MODE OF ACTION •The acid-neutralising action of antacids reduces the amount of hydrochloric acid load in the GIT by changing gastric Ph to neutral, which allows peptic ulcer to heal. •Because pepsin acts effectively in an acid medium, antacids also reduce its activity. •Antacids do not coat peptic ulcers or the lining of the GIT
  • 7. EXAMPLES OF GENERAL ANTACIDS 1. Aluminium Hydroxide 2. Magnesium Carbonate 3. Magnesium Trisilicate 4. Simeticone 5. Calcium carbonate
  • 8. ALUMINIUM HYDROXIDE Presentation: Tablet of 250mg Indication: Dyspepsia Dose: Adult and children over 14 years: 250mg to 1000mg, 3 – 4 times daily Children: 125mg/5ml 3 – 4 times daily. Side Effects: Constipation, Renal impairment especially when the kidneys are not functioning well and Fluid retention
  • 9. ALUMINIUM HYDROXIDE Contraindications: Neonates and infants Nursing Implication • Do not give other medications within 1 to 2 hours of antacids administration because antacids impair the absorption of many other drugs • Monitor the patient for constipation and encourage the patient to take a lot of fluids
  • 10. MAGNESIUM TRISILICATE Presentation: Tablet of 500mg Indications: Dyspepsia Dose: Adult and children over 14 years: 250mg to 1000mg, 3 – 4 times daily • Children: 125mg/5ml 3 – 4 times daily. Side Effects: Diarrhoea ,Belching and flatulence due to liberated carbon dioxide
  • 11. MAGNESIUM TRISILICATE CONTRAINDICATIONS • Renal impairment, Hepatic impairment NURSING IMPLICATION • Monitor patient for any signs dehydration because of diarrhoea • Monitor patient with renal function as this drug interferes with function
  • 12. H2-RECEPTOR ANTAGONIST • These drugs H2-Receptor antagonists heal gastric and duodenal ulcers by reducing gastric output as a result of Histamine H2 receptor blockade.
  • 13. MODE OF ACTION • They block the stimulant action of histamine on the acid-secreting parietal cells of the stomach. • Acid-secretion in the stomach depends on the binding of gastrin, acetylcholine and histamine to their respective receptors on the parietal cells. • If the binding of any of these substances is blocked, acid-secretion is reduced. • Thus by binding with H2-Receptor antagonist, acid-secretion is reduced.
  • 14. EXAMPLE OF H2 RECEPTOR ANTAGONIST •Cimetidine •Ranitidine •Famotidine •Nizatidine
  • 15. CIMETIDINE Indication: Gastric and duodenal ulceration, Stomach ulcer, Reflux Esophagitis, Reduction of gastric acid secretion Dose: 400mg twice daily (with breakfast and at night) or 800mg at night Side Effects: Alopecia, Tachycardia, Interstitial nephritis, Diarrhoea, Headache ,Impotence, Loss of libido
  • 16. CIMETIDINE Contraindication : Hepatic Impairment, Renal impairment, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding Nursing Implication • Monitor patient renal function as these drugs tend to interfere with renal function. • Monitor hydration if the patient develops diarrhoea. Obtain a prescription for an ant diarrhoea agent, as needed.
  • 17. PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS (PPIs) • These inhibit gastric acid secretion by blocking the hydrogen-potassium Adenosine triphosphatase enzyme system (Proton pump) of the parietal cells MOA: These block the action of H+/K+ Adenosine Triphosphatase in the parietal cells of the stomach.
  • 18. EXAMPLES OF PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS DRUGS • Omeprazole • Lansoprazole • Rabeprazole • Pantoprazole • Esomeprazole
  • 19. OMEPRAZOLE Presentation: Oral capsule containing 10mg, 200mg, and 40mg Injectable Indication: Short term treatment of active benign gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, erosive esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease. • They may be used in combination with antibiotics for treatment of active peptic ulcers associated with H. pylori infection Dose: Adults 20 – 40mg once or twice daily
  • 20. OMEPRAZOLE Side Effects; Diarrhoea, Headache, Dry mouth, Peripheral oedema, Dizziness , Fatigue, Hypersensitivity reactions Nursing Implication • Monitor hydration if the patient develops diarrhoea. • Obtain a prescription for an ant diarrhoea agent, as needed • Consult the physician or primary health care provider about discontinuing if diarrhoea becomes severe.
  • 21. PROSTAGLANDIN ANALOGUES MISOPROSTOL Presentation: Tablets containing 200mcg Indication: Prevention of NSAIDs induces gastric ulcers in patients at high risk for complications resulting from gastric ulcers. • Treatment and prevention of peptic ulcers Dose: 200mcg four times daily with food.
  • 22. MISOPROSTOL Side Effects: Diarrhoea, Abdominal pain, Uterine contractions, Menstrual disorders, Miscarriages in pregnancy. Contraindication: Pregnancy Nursing Implication: Administer this drug with food. • Do not administer Misoprostol in pregnancy as it may cause miscarriages.
  • 23. EMETICS • They are drugs that induce vomiting and are divided into 2 groups. REFLEX EMETICS: These induce vomiting by irritating the stomach e.g. warm salt water, mustard one tea spoon to one pint of warm milk. CENTRAL EMETICS: these induce vomiting by irritating the vomiting centre (Chemorecepter trigger zone) direct in the brain e.g. apple morphine. N/B they are rarely used. INDICATIONS • In poisoning when gastric lavage is not possible (Avoid in corrosive chemicals) • Acute indigestion due to excessive constipation of food. • Classified as local irritants, Reflex emetics ( producing vomiting reflexes) and central emetics (chemoreceptor trigger zone)
  • 24. ANTIEMETICS • These are drugs (agents) that prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting that can result from various factors as indicated below: • Surgery • Vestibular disorders • Poisoning etc. Mechanism of action • Phenothiazine derivatives are dopamine antagonists and act centrally by blocking the chemoreceptor trigger zone. • Antiemetics should be prescribed only when the cause of vomiting is known particularly in children. Otherwise the symptomatic relief that they produce may delay or mask diagnosis.
  • 25. ANTIEMETICS • Examples of antiemetic drugs • Metoclopromide E (Plasil, Maxolon) • Is an effective antiemetic and has positive effect on GIT motility and gastric peristalsis is increased leading to an increase in the gastric emptying rate. • Mechanism of action • Blockade of dopamine receptors centrally on the chemoreceptor trigger zone (a part of the brain which when stimulated by neurotransmitter dopamine evokes vomiting). • Indications: Nausea and vomiting, particularly in gastro- intestinal disorders or during treatment with cytotoxic drugs • Presentation: tablets 5mg and 10mg, Mixture 5mg/ml and Injection 5mg/ml
  • 26. ANTIEMETICS • Dose: • Adult; 10mg tid before meals or 10mg IM or IV, 10mg t.i.d 1-2 min after vomiting, 5mg t.i.d in young adults (15-19yrs) • • Children up to 1yr (up to 10kg) 0.5mg t.i.d. • 1-3yrs (10-14kg) 1mg t.i.d • 3-5yrs (15-19kg) 2mg 2-3 times daily • 5-9yrs (20-29kg) 2.5mg t.i.d • 9-14yrs (30kg and above) 5mg t.i.d • Side effects • Extrapyramidal symptoms especially in children. • Mutism • Hypokinesia • Tardive dyskinesia (involving movements) • Chewing,Tongue protrusion,Tremors of limbs • Drowsiness • Diarrhoea,Constipation, drowsiness, nystagmus. • Contraindications: Pregnancy, undiagnosed nausea and vomiting especially in children and young adults.
  • 27. ANTIEMETICS • Nursing implications • 1. Never the mix the drug with penicllins, sodium bicarbonate, cephalosporins and calcium gluconate due to imcompatibility. • 2. Assess for extrapyramidal effects such tardive dyskinesia, rigidity, grimacing, shuffling gait etc. • 3. Assess mental status for symptoms of depression, anxiety and irritability during treatment
  • 28. ANTIEMETICS • Phenothiazines • Drugs which include chlopromazine (lagactil), prochlorperazine, trifluoperazine, perphenazine, are used for symptomatic relief of nausea from underlined disease. • Mechanism of action • Phenothiazines are dopamine antagonists and act centrally by blocking the chemoreceptor trigger zone. They are of value for prophylaxis and treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with cancer diseases, radiation sickness emesis, cytotoxic and genaral anaesthetics. • Nursing implication s for phenothiazines • 1. Assess respiratory status i.e. rate. Rythym, increase in bronchial secretions, wheezing, chest tightness and provide fluid 1-2l /day to decrease secretion thickness. • 2. Monitor intake and output and look out for urinary retention. • 3. Monitor FBC during long term therapy as blood dyscrasia may occur. •
  • 29. ANTIEMETICS • Examples of phenothiazines • Promethazine (Phenergan) • Presentation: tablet containing 10mg, 25mg and injectable containing 5mg/5mls • Action: as above but also acts as an antihistamine, antiemetic and sedative • Indication: Various allergic conditions, nausea, & vomiting • Dose: 25 - 75 mg p.o., I.M. every 4-6 hours, 25 mg I.V. • Side Effects: Dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsy • Contraindications: Liver Disease
  • 30. ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS • These drugs are anti-spasmodic and are used in combination with anti-acids to treat peptic ulcers. Anti- spasmodic drugs reduce spasms of GIT myos, there use in the treatment of peptic ulcers is not helpful unless in large doses. • Mechanism of action • These drugs reduce gastric secretions and mortality by blocking the action of parasympathetic nervous system and largely dependent on the stimulation of parasympathetic nerve which controls the motility of the GIT.
  • 31. • Side effects of anti-cholinergics • Dry mouth • Dilatation of pupils • Blurred vision • Heart palpitation • Dry skin • Dizziness • confusion • constipation • urinary retention
  • 32. ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS •Nursing implications for anticholinergics •Atropine should never be given to patients with intraocular lenses. •Monitor intake and output and be particular with urinary retention. •Monitor ECG for ectopic ventricular beats. •Monitor bowel sound and note constipation
  • 33. ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS • Examples of anticholinergics • Atropin • Presentation: Injection containing 0.05, 0.1, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.8 and 1mg/ml. • Action: as above • Indication: used for patient with irritable bowel syndrome and dysphasia. • Dose: IM 0.4 – 0.6mg, qid in adults, 0.01mg/kg in children, 4 – 6 times/day. • Side effect: headache, hypotension, dry mouth, GIT disturbances, anorexia, vomiting and diarrhoea. Dry mouth, low urine out, dry eyes. • Caution: renal disease, gastric ulcers, hyperthyroidism etc. • Contraindications: hypersensitivity to belladonna alkaloids, GIT obstruction, asthma etc.
  • 34. ANTICHOLINERGIC AGENTS • Buscopan (hyosine bromide) • Presentation: tablet containing 10mg or injection containing 20mg/ml • Indication: GIT spasms • Dose: When used in diagnostic purposes like in endoscopy adult 20mg qid. Children 10mg tid. Dose in patients with acute spasms of GIT is given 20mg IV. • Side effects: drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty in micturation. • Caution: elderly, urinary retention, cardiovascular disease, GIT obstruction, hepatic and renal impairment, porphyria and breastfeeding. • Contraindications: closed angle glaucoma, hypersensitivity, and children under 6 years because they are more sensitive to it. • Other drugs in the group include probantine bromide, methoscoplolamine bromide
  • 35. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Laxatives and purgative can beb classified into various categories. • Bulky forming laxatives • These drugs loosen the bowels thereby promoting evacuation as a result of soft formed stool. • They act by retaining water in the colon thus increasing stool bulk and stimulating bowel movements to produce soft stool e.g. spagila husk and bran. They are neither digested nor absorbed • They should be taken with plenty of fluids. Failure to do so may result in faecal impaction or intestinal obstruction. They take about 2-3 days to exert an effect. • Contra-Indications: generally these drugs are not to be given in anal fissure, proctitis and ulcerative colitis and haemorrhoids
  • 36. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Liquid paraffin • Indications: Chronic constipation and painful ano-rectal conditions • Dose: Adults; 10-30ml • Side-Effects: Seepage from anus and perianal irritation after prolonged use. • Stimulant laxatives • These act by stimulating the nerve endings of the nerve plexus in the gut wall, causing irritation and increased peristalsis in small and large bowels.
  • 37. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Senna glycosides(Senokot) • Takes several hours to act (8-12 hrs). • Presentation; 7.5mg • Action: Promotes fluid accumulation. Used for preparation for delivery, surgery,rectal and bowel examination. • • Indication: constipation, bowel evacuation before abdominal radiological procedures, endoscopy, surgery etc.
  • 38. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Bisacodyl (dulcolax) • Presentation: 10mg, 5mg tablets and suppositories • Action: acts directly on intestines by increasing motor activity; thought to irritate colonic intramural plexus; and increase water retention in the colon. • The drug is best given at night to encourage bowel action. Suppositories act more rapidly
  • 39. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Please take Note: • Stimulant laxatives increase intestinal motility and often cause abdominal cramps. • They should not be used in intestinal obstruction. They cause smooth muscle atony in the colon and potassium loss. • Contraindications: • The drug should not be given in patients with the following: • Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pains faecal impaction and intestinal obstruction. • Nursing considerations. • Give with caution in patients with rectal bleeding.
  • 40. LAXATIVES AND PURGATIVES • Saline Purgatives (Emollient Purgatives) • Mechanism of action • These lubricate the GIT by retaining fluids within bowels lumen resulting in soft stool and stimulating peristalsis. The osmotic purgatives act by osmosis i.e. the osmotic pressure of salt in solution retains sufficient fluids within the gut which should be isotonic with body fluids. • Examples of saline purgatives • Magnesium sulphate ( Epsom salt) • Is a typical saline purgative and has a bitter taste and may be given with orange juice. • Caution • Use with caution in elderly and renal impairment. Other mild purgatives include; magnesium citrate and magnesium hydroxide.
  • 41. ANTI-DIARRHEALS • Loperamide (Imodium) • Presentation: 2mg capsule • • It is a sympathetic agent which bears some chemical structure resemblance to morphine and probably reduces bowel motility in a similar way. • Mechanism of action • Probably by reducing the effects of acetylcholine on gut receptors on the circular and longitudinal muscles of the intestinal wall and this reduces peristaltic activity.
  • 42. ANTI-DIARRHEALS • Loperamide (Imodium) • Presentation: 2mg capsule • It is a sympathetic agent which bears some chemical structure resemblance to morphine and probably reduces bowel motility in a similar way. • Mechanism of action • Probably by reducing the effects of acetylcholine on gut receptors on the circular and longitudinal muscles of the intestinal wall and this reduces peristaltic activity.
  • 43. ANTI-DIARRHEALS • Indication • Adjunct in the management of acute non-specific diarrhoea and chronic diarrhoea with dehydration. • Used in inflammatory bowel disease. Dose: Initial dose of 4mg followed by 2mg after each loose stool. Do not exceed a daily dose of 16mg. Side effects: Abdominal cramps, skin reactions, anticholinergic effects, respiratory depression, euphoria, numbness of the extremities, nausea and vomiting. Caution: do not use in children under 4 years.
  • 44. SUPPOSITORIES • Definition: They are solid preparations each containing one or more medicaments. • They are usually administered for single dose as local action or systemic absorption in disease treatment.. The shape, volume and consistence of suppositories are such that the preparation is suitable for rectal administration. • Suppositories usually weigh between 1-4g. • The medicament is dispensed in a suitable base which may melt at suitable temperature (body temperature). Suppositories may be kept in a well closed place and stored at temperatures not exceeding more than 30*c, usually refrigerated. • • Anal, perineal pruritis, sores and excoriation are best treated by application of ointments and suppositories. These conditions occur in patients suffering from hemorrhoids, fistula and proctitis.
  • 45. SUPPOSITORIES • Anusol (Bismuth Subgallate) • Presentation: suppositories and cream. • Indication: symptomatic relief of haemorrhoids. • Dose: insert 1 suppository at night and in the morning and after defecation. Patient is advised to clear anal region with warm water and soap. Apply cream twice a day.
  • 46. SUPPOSITORIES • Proctosedyl • Presentation: suppositories and contains cinchocaine hydrocortisone. • Indication: haemorrhoids. • Dose: insert 1 suppository at night, 1 in the morning and repeat after a bowel movement.
  • 47. RECTAL INFUSIONS • Enemas • These are aqueous or oily solutions or suspensions for rectal administration. • They are given for their anthelminthic, anti- inflammatory, nutritive, purgative or sedative effects or for x-ray examination of the lower bowels. Retention enemas should be inserted after defecation
  • 48. RECTAL INFUSIONS • They should be administered slowly with the patient lying on one side. • The patient should lie in prone position to retain the enema for at least 30min to allow distribution and absorption of the medicament. • Large volume enemas should be warmed to body temperatures before administration.
  • 49. ANTIHELMINTHICS • These are drugs used to treat diseases caused by worms. • Mode of action • These drugs are generally called benzimidazoles. They act by binding to tubulin, preventing its polymerisation into cytoskeletal microtubules. The effect is selective for parasitic tubulin and the drugs are active against the adults, larvae and eggs.
  • 50. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Mebendazole (vermox) • Presentation: tablet containing 100mg and suspension 500mg/5ml • Indications: in trichuris trichura (whipworm), enterobius vermicularis (pinworm), threadworms, ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm), and ancylostoma duodenal (common hookworm). • Dose: threadworm adult and child over 2 years 100mg single dose, whipworm adult and child over 2 years 100mg twice daily for 3 days or 500mg single dose, roundworm adult and child 100mg twice daily for 3 days, hookworm adult 100mg daily for 3 days.
  • 51. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Side effects: abdominal pain, diarrhoea, hypersensitivity reactions- erythema, rash, urticarial and angioedema • Caution: pregnancy especially in first trimester, breastfeeding, safety in children less than 2 years not established. • Contraindications: hypersensitivity. • Nursing Implications • Initiate second course of treatment if cure does not occur within 3 week. • Examine and treat all family members simultaneously because pinworms are readily transmitted from person to person.
  • 52. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Albendazole • Presentation: 200 mg tablets • Actions: Albendazole is a broad-spectrum oral anthelmintic agent. It is the only anthelmintic drug active against all stages of the helminth life cycle (ova, larvae, and adult worms). Its mechanism of action is unclear, but it appears to cause selective degeneration of cytoplasmic microtubules in the intestinal cells of the helminths and larvae. In general Albendazole ultimately causes decreased ATP production in the helminths, resulting in energy depletion, which kills the worms. • Indications: Treatment of neurocysticercosis caused by the larval form of pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), hydatid disease caused by the larval form of dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus).
  • 53. ANTIHELMINTHICS • DOSE • Neurocysticercosis Adult/Child:PO>6 y, weight <60 kg, 15 mg/kg/d divided b.i.d. for 8–30 d cycle (max: 800 mg/d); weight 60 kg, 400 mg b.i.d. for 8–30 d cycle • Hydatid Disease • Adult/Child:PO>6 y, weight <60 kg, 15 mg/kg/d divided b.i.d. (max: 800 mg/d); weight 60 kg, 400 mg b.i.d. for 28 d cycle (then 14 d without drug & repeat regimen for 3 cycles)
  • 54. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Side Effects: Hypersensitivity reactions. CNS:Headache, dizziness, vertigo, increased intracranial pressure, meningeal signs, alopecia (reversible), fever. GI:Abnormal liver function tests, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting. Hematologic: (Rare) Reversible leukopenia, granulocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis. Skin: Rash, urticaria. • • Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the benzimidazole class of compounds or any components of albendazole; pregnancy (category C).
  • 55. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Nursing Implications • Lab tests: Monitor WBC count, absolute neutrophil count, and liver function tests at start of each 28-d cycle and q2wk during cycle. • Withhold drug and notify physician if WBC count falls below normal or liver enzymes are elevated. • Note: Patients should be concurrently treated with appropriate steroid and anticonvulsant therapy. • Give with meals. Absorption is significantly increased with a fatty meal. • Do not exceed maximum total daily dose of 800 mg. • Store at 20°–25° C (68°–77° F).
  • 56. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Piperazine • Presentation: syrup 750mg/5mls, oral powder 4g • Mechanism of action • The drug competitively inhibits the effect of acetylcholine on the smooth muscle of worm, producing a reversible flaccid paralysis. • The only piperazine treatment available is pripsen powder sachets which is piperazine combined with a mild laxative (senna). Piperazine works by paralysing the worms which are then evacuated by the laxative action of the senna. A second dose of Piperazine is given after 14 days to ensure that any worms that were unhatched at the time of the first dose will be cleared from the system. Pripsen Powders are the only drug treatment for threadworms which can be given to children under the age of two years old (from 3 months of age).
  • 57. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Indications: threadworm and roundworm • Dose: threadworms stirred in milk/water adult and child 6years and above content of 1 sachet as a single dose at bed time repeated after 14 days. In roundworms same dose as for threadworms and repeated at monthly intervals for 3 months. • Side effects: nausea, vomiting, colic, diarrhoea, local spasms, colonic contractions in patient with neurological or renal abnormalities.
  • 58. ANTIHELMINTHICS • Pyrantel Pamoate (Combantrin) • Presentation: 125mg tabs, 250mg/5ml suspension. • Indication: hookworms, round worms, thread worms. • Action; Paralyses worms and dislodges them from the GIT • Dose: 5mg-10mg per kg bwt. For hook worms repeat on 3 consecutive days. Children of up to 2 years give 1 tab or 2.5mls suspension as a single dose. 9-17 years, 4 tabs or 10ml suspension. • Side effects: GIT upset, headache, dizziness. • Contraindication. Not to be given with piperazine and in pregnancy.
  • 59. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • These are drugs used in the treatment of schistosomiasis commonly known as bilharzia. • Mode of action • These are known to interfere with Calcium homeostasis in the parasite causing muscular paralysis and increasing cell membrane permeability or they increase the cell permeability to calcium in Schistosomes, causing strong contractions and paralysis of worm musculature
  • 60. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • Praziquantel (Biltricide) • Presentation: Tablet containing 600mg • Mechanism of action: as above • Indications: schistosoma japonicum, haematobium and mansoni • Dose: S. haematobium and mansoni adult 40mg/Kg body weight. S.japonicum 60mg/Kg body weight • Side effects: malaise, headache, dizziness, abdominal discomfort with nausea, rarely urticarial. • Caution: safety in children under 4 not established. • Contraindications: hypersensitivity. • Nursing implications • Tablets can be halved or quartered
  • 61. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • Oxaminiquine (vansil) • Presentation: capsule containing 250mg. • Mechanism of action: as above • Indications: All stages of Schistosoma mansoni infection, including acute and chronic phases with hepatosplenic involvement. • Dose: oral 15mg/Kg in adults and 10-15mg/Kg in children • Side effects: CNS:Transitory dizziness, drowsiness, headache; persistent fever (in patients being treated in Egypt); EEG abnormalities, convulsions (rare). GI: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, elevated liver enzyme concentrations. Hematologic: Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, reticulocyte count, and increased or decreased leukocyte count. Skin: Urticaria. Urogenital: Red-orange urine.
  • 62. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • Contraindications: safe use during pregnancy (category C), lactation, or in children is not established. • Caution: history of convulsions. • Nursing Implications • Supervise ambulation and use other safety precautions because >30% of patients experience dizziness or drowsiness. • If patient has a history of seizures, the possibility of seizures is increased because of drug action (occurs within hours of drug administration). • Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness because drug can cause dizziness or drowsiness. • Be aware that drug may change the normal urine colour to a harmless orange-red. • Do not breast feed while taking this drug without consulting physician.
  • 63. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • Metrifonate (Bilarcil) • Presentation: tablet containing • Action: the drug is an organophosphorus cholinesterase inhibitor that results into schistosomicide action. • Indication: S. haematobium • Dose: 7.5-10mg/kg once after a 2 week interval in 3 does • Side effects: mild Git disturbance, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, flatulence, nausea, leg cramps and slight decrease in heart rate and vertigo.
  • 64. DRUGS USED IN THE TREATMENT OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS • Contraindications: GIT, heart and glaucoma disorders • Overdosage (antidote): Atropine sulfate (for adults, 1 mg every 6 hours) may be used as a specific antidote to relieve symptoms of cholinergic activity. This does not impair the antiparasitic action. • Nursing implications • Metrifonate tablets should be kept in tightly closed containers and stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C, preferably in a refrigerator. • Discoloured tablets should be discarded. • Avoid drug in pregnancy as the drug is teratogenic or embryotoxic • Not to given to breastfeeding mother as drug is excreted in breast milk.
  • 65. References • Bertram G. K,.etal (2010).Basic & Clinical Pharmacology.10th Edition.California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0450. Ben. G., etal. (2013) Trounce’s Clinical Pharmacology for Nurses.18th Edition. Edinburgh: Churchill, Livingstone • Greenstein B. (2013), Trounce’s Clinical Pharmacology for nurses, 18th Edition, Elsevier Limited, Churchill Livingstone. • Ministry of Health. (2013). Zambia National Formulary. Ndeke House. Lusaka • Skidmore-Roth. L. (2007); Mosby’s Drug Guide for Nurses 7th Ed, Mosby Elsevier. St Louis Missouri. • WHO (2014 ) Essential Medicines and Health Products .Last updated: December 20, 2014