Gastrointestinal agents

Review collates evidence on increased risk of death for anticholinergics

A new systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that patients using any drug with anticholinergic effects have a 45% increased risk of cognitive impairment.…

FDA approves two new drugs for irritable bowel syndrome

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved two new treatments for patients with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea.…

Study provides insight into why PPI users benefit from calcium supplements

$Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are associated with an increased risk of bone fracture, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In the image, x-ray of a fractured wrist$

Researchers have identified a gene, Snx10, whose expression is required both in the bone and stomach to maintain normal gastric acidification and calcium absorption.…

Linaclotide, lubiprostone and prucalopride interactions

How to avoid potential pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions with the latest medicines for managing constipation.…

Step into the limelight – pharmacists to take the lead in advancing the management of acid reflux

So, step into the limelight! In this article we review the current thinking in the management of heartburn and acid reflux in community pharmacies, and provide guidance and practical tools for the entire pharmacy team to support a customer-centric approach to care.…

Constipation: managing the condition in adults

How to assess patients with constipation and select the right treatment to minimise the risk of complications.…

Heartburn drug esomeprazole is first proton pump inhibitor to be sold outside pharmacies in the UK

Nexium Control has become the first proton pump inhibitor in the UK to be made available in corner shops and supermarkets, following its reclassification to a general sales list medicine.…

Audit highlights problem of patients taking NSAIDs without gastroprotection

Many patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are not co-prescribed gastroprotective agents, an audit of community pharmacies in England has found.…

NICE offers advice on gastro-oesophageal reflux in children

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has published its first clinical guideline on the management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in infants and children.…

Making foods more filling could help tackle obesity

Adding a chemical that helps to cause satedness after eating to food may help to reduce the amount that individuals eat and therefore reduce weight gain.…