Gastrointestinal agents

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Gastrointestinal Agents

Gastrointestinal agents (pronunciation: gas-tro-in-tes-ti-nal ay-gents) are a group of drugs used to treat conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

Etymology

The term "gastrointestinal" is derived from the Greek words "gaster" (stomach) and "enteron" (intestine). "Agent" is derived from the Latin word "agens" meaning "doing" or "performing".

Definition

Gastrointestinal agents are a broad category of drugs that act on the gastrointestinal tract and the digestive system. These drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions such as acid reflux, peptic ulcers, gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation. They work by either increasing or decreasing the activity of the gastrointestinal organs, or by neutralizing the chemicals produced in the stomach.

Types of Gastrointestinal Agents

There are several types of gastrointestinal agents, including:

  • Antacids: These are drugs that neutralize stomach acid to relieve heartburn and indigestion.
  • Proton pump inhibitors: These drugs reduce the production of stomach acid.
  • H2 blockers: These drugs also reduce the production of stomach acid.
  • Laxatives: These drugs stimulate bowel movements.
  • Antidiarrheals: These drugs reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea.
  • Prokinetic agents: These drugs increase the movements of the gastrointestinal tract.

Related Terms

  • Gastroenterology: The branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders.
  • Pharmacology: The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
  • Therapeutics: The part of medicine concerned with the treatment of disease and the action of remedial agents.

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