Drugs

Probiotics in IBS

What is the role of probiotics in IBS?  Probiotics are live organisms (bacteria) that are thought to exert a health benefit on the host. Probiotics exert their beneficial effects via several proposed mechanisms including modulation of bacterial flora, improvement of the barrier function of the epithelium, and alteration of the immune activity of the host. …

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Antibiotics in IBS

What is the role of antibiotics in IBS?  The rationale for use of antibiotics in IBS is based on their ability to alter the intestinal microbiota. Alterations in the intestinal microbiota in IBS are supported from multiple lines of evidence. To date, most of the data on the treatment of IBS with antibiotics has been …

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Antispasmodics in IBS

What is the role of antispasmodics in IBS?  Antispasmodics decrease contractions or spasms in the GI tract, and thereby reduce abdominal cramps. IBS patients have exaggerated sigmoid contractions in response to meals and to stress, which may explain the postprandial discomfort and urgency in some patients. Antispasmodics can be classified into three major subclasses: anticholinergics, …

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Antidepressants in IBS

What is the role of antidepressants in IBS?  Antidepressants are commonly used for moderate to severe abdominal symptoms associated with IBS. TCA medications are the most commonly used antidepressants for IBS symptoms. Typically the TCAs are administered in low doses (e.g., between 10-50 mg). The exact mechanism of action is not clear, but includes visceral …

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Easy method to calculate mixtures of constant infusions of drugs

Is there an easy method to calculate mixtures of constant infusions of drugs?  Several methods are used. Here is one easy method: • For constant infusion of drugs (epinephrine, isoproterenol) beginning at 0.1 μg/kg/minute : 0.6 times the weight (in kg) equals the number of milligrams of drug to add to enough water to make a total of …

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Role of sodium bicarbonate in pediatric resuscitations

Does sodium bicarbonate have a role in pediatric resuscitations?  Sodium bicarbonate is not recommended for routine use in pediatric resuscitations. Although it is a useful agent for the reversal of documented metabolic acidosis, it is effective only in the presence of adequate ventilation. When bicarbonate combines with hydrogen, it forms a complex molecule that splits …

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