Some important details about digestive disorder medication
Dealing with digestive issues as well as finding relief can be tough, whether you’re in need of an acid reflux remedy, bloating remedy, GI drugs, gut medication, or digestion support. Your doctor may prescribe a digestive disorder medication to help you find relief.
To help you better understand your options when consulting with your doctor, we’ll guide you through some basic information about digestive disorder medications and how they work for stomach health.
In this article
1. How does digestive disorder medication work?
A digestive disorder medication targets the root causes of issues like acid reflux, ulcers, or irritable bowel syndrome. For instance, antacids work by neutralising stomach acid, providing relief from discomfort.[1]
Some medications, like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and metoclopramide, target specific parts of the stomach to relieve symptoms and manage conditions. PPIs are often used to treat problems caused by too much stomach acid, like gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). They work by stopping the stomach from making too much acid, which prevents and heals acid-related inflammation and ulcers in the stomach and oesophagus.[2]
Metoclopramide, on the other hand, is used for conditions like diabetic gastroparesis and nausea. It helps by speeding up movement in the stomach, which eases symptoms and helps with digestion. In addition, it prevents vomiting by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.
However, if you have a history of heart failure or cirrhosis of the liver, take caution with metoclopramide, as it may potentially cause fluid retention and volume overload.[3]
Both types of digestive disorder medication illustrate the complex balance between therapeutic benefits and the risk of side effects. Seeking medical supervision and personalised treatment for digestive issues is critical.
2. How do you take digestive disorder medication?
Taking digestive disorder medication typically involves following specific guidelines based on the type of medication. These medications can be in the form of stomach pills, tablets, capsules, liquids, or even injections, and the method of intake can vary.
For digestive disorder medication options like Nexium (esomeprazole), Esopreze (esomeprazole), or Nexole (esomeprazole), it is typically recommended to swallow them whole with water, ideally an hour before eating. This can help ensure the medication is being properly absorbed into your system.[4]
Your doctor can help determine the proper dosage and timing in relation to your unique lifestyle habits.
3. Who can take digestive disorder medication?
Digestive disorder medications are prescribed based on the condition, your health, and possible side effects or interactions with other drugs.
For example, elderly individuals can be susceptible to medication-related gastrointestinal side effects, which can decrease their medication adherence.[5] Meanwhile, medications like Motilium (domperidone) are not recommended for mothers with a history of cardiac arrhythmias.[6]
Overall, the decision to use such medications must be based on a comprehensive assessment of the your specific needs and medical history, under the guidance of a doctor.
4. Side effects of digestive disorder medication
Digestive disorder medications, such as antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors, can cause side effects such as the following:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
In the case of calcium carbonate, rebound hyperacidity may be experienced upon discontinuation.
Long-term use of certain medications may alter stomach acidity levels, potentially leading to vitamin B12 malabsorption. Thus, it’s essential to regularly see your doctor when undergoing adjustments in treatments.[7]
5. Digestive disorder medication and other medications
Digestive disorder medications can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects. For example, calcium carbonate should not be taken within one to two hours of other medicines due to the risk of decreased effectiveness of the other drugs.
Additionally, medications like famotidine require dosage adjustments for patients with liver and kidney diseases. It’s crucial to consult doctors for advice on managing these interactions to ensure safe and effective use of all medications.[8]
6. Medicines you should not use with digestive disorder medication
Medications that should be used cautiously or not at all with digestive disorder medication include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can cause gastrointestinal irritation, leading to ulcers or bleeding.[9]
Metformin, antipsychotics, and antidepressants may also induce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and altered bowel habits, potentially complicating the management of existing digestive conditions.
Be upfront with your doctor about any medications you’re currently taking, so you can discuss potential interactions and contraindications to ensure safe and effective treatment of digestive disorders while managing other conditions.
7. How to order digestive disorder medication through Chemist2U
At Chemist2U, we simplify obtaining prescription medications, including digestive disorder medication, with just a few clicks. Through our user-friendly app or this website, you can easily upload your e prescription and order a wide range of over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products for direct delivery to your doorstep.
Orders placed before the daily cutoff time, usually 2.00 p.m., are eligible for same-day delivery, while certain items may be shipped via AusPost, requiring 5 to 7 business days for delivery.
We’re making medications easy at Chemist2U. So, order home delivery for your medication today.
References
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/antacid
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557385/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519517/
[4] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699054.html
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6354172/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501371/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK594994/
