Anti-Diarrheals: Key Facts and Mnemonic

Introduction

• Focus on anti-diarrheals: loperamide and diphenoxylate atropine.
• Medications increase absorption of fluids and electrolytes to treat diarrhea.

Mnemonic Setup

• Janitor cleaning diarrhea: Image to remember anti-diarrheals.

Common Anti-Diarrheal Drugs

Loperamide

• Symbolized by "loafers."
• Brand Name: Imodium
• Generic Name: Loperamide
• Mnemonic: Cleaning diarrhea off loafers = Loperamide

Diphenoxylate Atropine

• Symbolized by "dolphin socks."
• Combination Drug: Diphenoxylate and Atropine
• Brand Name: Lomotil
• Mnemonic: Dolphin socks for Diphenoxylate and tropics for Atropine

Mechanism of Action

• Both drugs are synthetic opiates that bind to opiate receptors in the gut.
• Primary Effect: Harnesses opioid side effect (constipation) to slow bowel movements.
• Non-Controlled Substances: Metabolized quickly, low abuse potential.

Important Notes

• Increase frequency & liquidity of stool.
• Do not address underlying causes of diarrhea.
• For bacterial infections, antibiotics are needed.

Recap

• Anti-diarrheals: Loperamide (Imodium) and Diphenoxylate Atropine (Lomotil)
• Treat diarrhea by reducing stool frequency and liquidity.

Conclusion

• Mnemonics and details to remember key anti-diarrheal drugs.
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