Gastroenterology
Drug-Induced GI Disease
Gastroenterology

Drug-Induced GI Disease

Constipation, ulcer/perf, hepatitis, pancreatitis, esophagitis.

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Motility changes

  • Opioids → constipation. Tx: osmotic laxatives (PEG), cathartics (Mg citrate), softeners (docusate)
  • Anticholinergics (diphenhydramine, oxybutynin, amitriptyline) → constipation, fecal impaction
  • Chronic laxative abuse (eating disorders) → hypoK + arrhythmias

NSAID/aspirin GI injury

  • Inhibit prostaglandin → loss of mucosal barrier
  • Gastritis, PUD, perforation
  • Painless diverticular hemorrhage in elderly

Drug-induced hepatitis

  • Acetaminophen overdose → centrilobular necrosis → N-acetylcysteine
  • Isoniazid → ↑AST/ALT without ↑bilirubin; also B6 deficiency
  • Valproic acid → hyperammonemia + hepatotoxicity

Drug-induced pancreatitis (I GET SMASHED)

  • Thiazides, loop diuretics, sulfa, valproate, azathioprine, didanosine

Pill esophagitis culprits

  • NSAIDs, tetracyclines, bisphosphonates, KCl, iron
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