22.9 : תרופות המשפיעות על תנועתיות מערכת העיכול: סופחים כתרופות נגד שלשול

Diarrhea, characterized by frequent bowel movements, can lead to complications such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

It is primarily caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, infiltrating through contaminated food or water. It may also arise due to underlying disease, anxiety, or as a drug therapy or radiation side effect.

Antidiarrheal agents include adsorbents such as activated charcoal, kaolin, pectin, aluminum hydroxide, and methylcellulose to help manage this condition.

Adsorbents directly adsorb toxins, and microbes, bile salts, and excess fluid. They can also form a protective layer on the intestinal lining.

Depending on the gut motility and the extent of inflammation, the adsorbed toxins and pathogens are expelled from the body unabsorbed. This reduces their potential to cause further inflammation and irritation in the intestines.

However, these agents show several limitations, including lower efficacy than opioids, potential interference with other drugs, and nutrient absorption.