Laxatives, Plantago Ovata, Antibiotics and Drug Resistance
Laxatives: Bulking, Osmotic, and Saline
Bulking Laxatives
Bulking laxatives work by attracting (absorbing) water into the fecal bolus, increasing its size and softening its consistency. This indirectly stimulates peristalsis in the colon.
Examples:
- Bran
- Methylcellulose
- Husk of Plantago ovata
Osmotic Laxatives
Osmotic laxatives attract water into the intestinal lumen via osmosis, resulting in more watery stools. They are potent and act within hours.
Examples:
- Lactulose
- Lactitol
- Glycerin suppositories
Saline Laxatives
Saline laxatives function by creating a strong osmotic gradient in the intestinal lumen.
Plantago ovata (Psyllium Husk)
Plantago ovata, or psyllium husk, is a bulking laxative. It is indicated for individuals with diminished gut motility. Adequate water intake is crucial when using this treatment.
Side Effects of Paraffin Oil
Long-term use of paraffin oil can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, potentially leading to vitamin deficiencies. Its absorption and presence in vessels can act as a foreign body. While its absorption is difficult, it can act as an emollient.
Loperamide and Diarrhea
It is incorrect to administer loperamide for all types of diarrhea. It should not be used in cases of infectious diarrhea because microbial agents may be retained in the intestine, hindering the natural elimination process. Do not use after 48 hours.
Consequences of Antibiotic Misuse
- Resistant bacteria: The development of bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
- Superinfection: The emergence of infections caused by germs that are not sensitive to the antibiotic, or the overgrowth of organisms that are normally kept in check by susceptible organisms.
- Adverse reactions: Increased risk of toxicity with increased consumption.
- Nosocomial infections: Infections acquired in a hospital, often due to multi-resistant bacteria from prolonged antibiotic exposure.
Isolation Measures for Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Isolation measures are used to prevent contact transmission of multidrug-resistant bacteria. The consequences of transmission can be severe due to the lack of effective treatment options.
Preventing Acquired Antibiotic Resistance
Measures to prevent bacteria from developing acquired resistance include:
- Appropriate antibiotic policy
- Adhering to the prescribed administration schedule
- Administering injectable antibiotics with the proper solution
- Therapeutic adherence
- Education and health awareness
- Use of isolation measures
Undesirable Effects of Penicillin
Possible undesirable effects of penicillin administration include:
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Renal nephritis
- Neurological disorders
- Digestive disorders
- Liver issues
- Superinfection
Penicillin Allergy and Cephalosporin Substitution
It is incorrect to automatically replace a penicillin antibiotic with a similar-spectrum cephalosporin in a person with a penicillin allergy. Cross-hypersensitivity exists between penicillins and cephalosporins, as they are both beta-lactam antibiotics.