Gastrointestinal Medications (Counseling Tips)

Question 1

promethazine

Answer 1

drowsiness and dizziness
avoid alcohol due to enhanced drowsiness
sun sensitivity

Question 2

ondansetron

Answer 2

fatigue
headache
diarrhea or constipation

Question 3

omeprazole

Answer 3

works in 1 day up to 4 days for full effect
food delays absorption so take 1 hour before
separate from antacids by 2 hours

Question 4

famotidine

Answer 4

works in 1 hour up to 1 day for full effect
can be taken with antacids

Question 5

maalox

Answer 5

shake well
works within minutes
many drug-drug interactions
constipation from aluminum
diarrhea from magnesium and simethicone

Question 6

calcium carbonate

Answer 6

constipation
chew before swallowing
do not use longer than 2 weeks for indigestion

Question 7

docusate sodium

Answer 7

works in 1-3 days
take with water
diarrhea and cramps

Question 8

polyethylene glycol

Answer 8

laxative works in 1-3 days
do not take laxative longer than 1 week without MD approval
colon prep works in 1 hour
diarrhea, cramps, bloating

Question 9

bisacodyl

Answer 9

oral dose works in 8 hours
suppository works within 15-60 mins
do not take for longer than 1 week without MD approval
diarrhea and cramps

Question 10

loperamide

Answer 10

drowsiness
is diarrhea isnt improved within 2 days call doctor due to dehydration risk