GASTRACID LIQUID

Mechanism of action

Carbonate ions participate in buffering reactions that help maintain pH homeostasis in biological systems. They can react with acids to form bicarbonate and carbon dioxide, thus neutralizing excess acidity in the body. This mechanism is crucial in processes such as respiration and metabolism.

Pharmacodynamics

As a buffer, carbonate helps to stabilize pH levels in different biological environments, preventing excessive acidity or alkalinity that could impair cellular functions. It is involved in the transport of carbon dioxide in the blood and plays a role in maintaining the acid-base equilibrium necessary for physiological processes.

Pharmacokinetics

Carbonate ions are readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract when ingested and can be found in various body fluids. They are involved in the bicarbonate buffering system, where they are converted to bicarbonate (HCO3-) and carbon dioxide (CO2) through reactions with acids. The kidneys regulate the levels of bicarbonate and carbonate in the body, excreting or reabsorbing them as needed to maintain homeostasis.

Pregnancy

There is no specific information available regarding the use of carbonate compounds during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare provider for advice.

Breast-feeding

There is no specific information available regarding the use of carbonate compounds while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider for advice.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Indications

• Nutritional support in patients unable to consume food orally
• Parenteral nutrition
• Drug delivery for lipophilic medications
• Topical applications for skin conditions

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines and clinical protocols for paediatric dosing.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines and clinical protocols for adult dosing.

Mechanism of action

Emulsions work by reducing the surface tension between the oil and water phases, allowing for the formation of stable droplets. This process is mediated by emulsifying agents, which can be surfactants or natural polymers that stabilize the emulsion and prevent phase separation. The absorption and bioavailability of drugs within the emulsion can be enhanced due to the increased surface area for absorption.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of emulsions vary based on their composition and formulation. The presence of emulsifying agents can influence the release profile of the active ingredients, allowing for controlled or sustained release. Emulsions can also enhance the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs, improving their therapeutic effects and minimizing side effects related to high concentrations of active ingredients.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of emulsions depend on their route of administration and the specific properties of the drug contained within the emulsion. After administration, emulsions can be rapidly absorbed due to their small droplet size, leading to quicker onset of action. The distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the drug will follow the pharmacokinetic principles applicable to the active ingredients, influenced by their solubility and the emulsion's formulation.

Pregnancy

The safety of emulsions during pregnancy depends on the specific type and formulation. Consult relevant guidelines and specific product information.

Breast-feeding

Emulsions may be used while breastfeeding, but specific product information should be consulted to ensure safety.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Specific formulations may have unique storage requirements.

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific guidelines for pediatric dosing; consult the BNF for Children for accurate dosage information.

Adults: Refer to specific guidelines for use; dosage may vary based on the context of use.

Mechanism of action

Hydroxide ions act primarily as bases, neutralizing acids to form water and salts. They participate in various biochemical pathways, including selenium metabolism and the degradation of reactive oxygen species. Hydroxide can influence enzyme activity and stability by altering the pH of the environment, thereby affecting metabolic reactions.

Pharmacodynamics

Hydroxide ions can impact biological processes by changing the local pH, which influences enzyme activity, ion transport, and the solubility of other compounds. Their ability to neutralize acids can help regulate physiological pH, contributing to homeostasis in living organisms.

Pharmacokinetics

As an inorganic ion, hydroxide does not undergo traditional pharmacokinetic processes like absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion. Instead, it is rapidly equilibrated in biological fluids and participates in acid-base reactions, having immediate effects on the local environment.

Pregnancy

There is limited information regarding the use of hydroxide during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Breast-feeding

Limited data is available on the excretion of hydroxide in breast milk. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Indications

• Flatulence
• Bloating
• Gastrointestinal discomfort due to gas

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.

Mechanism of action

Simethicone is a surfactant that decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, more easily allowing gas to exit the body. It acts by spreading on the surface of aqueous liquids, forming a film of low surface tension, which causes the collapse of foam bubbles. This property helps mucus-surrounded gas bubbles in the GI tract to coalesce and be expelled.

Pharmacodynamics

Simethicone decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating their expulsion. It is characterized by a short duration of action as it is usually administered as needed. Simethicone has a wide therapeutic index due to its non-systemic absorption.

Pharmacokinetics

Simethicone is not significantly absorbed systemically, which contributes to its safety profile and allows it to act locally in the gastrointestinal tract. Its effects are generally rapid, providing relief from gas-related symptoms shortly after administration.

Pregnancy

Simethicone is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Breast-feeding

Simethicone is considered safe for use during breastfeeding as it is not systemically absorbed.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Formulations

• Oral suspension
• Chewable tablets
• Soft gels

Indications

• Gastric hyperacidity
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcers

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines for dosing, as it may vary based on formulation.

Mechanism of action

Trisilicate works by reacting with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form neutral compounds, which reduces acidity. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of acid-related disorders by increasing the pH level in the stomach.

Pharmacodynamics

Trisilicate exhibits its therapeutic effects primarily through acid neutralization. By decreasing the acidity of gastric contents, it provides symptomatic relief from conditions such as gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcers. The onset of action is typically rapid, with effects lasting for a few hours.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of trisilicate involve minimal systemic absorption since the drug primarily acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract. The compound is excreted unchanged in the feces. Its onset of action is usually within minutes after administration, with a duration of effect that can last several hours, depending on gastric emptying and the formulation used.

Pregnancy

Trisilicate is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breast-feeding

Trisilicate may be used during breastfeeding, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.

Mechanism of action

Simethicone is a surfactant that decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, more easily allowing gas to exit the body. The clinical use of simethicone is based on its antifoam properties. Silicone antifoams spread on the surface of aqueous liquids, forming a film of low surface tension and thus causing collapse of foam bubbles. Simethicone reportedly allows mucus-surrounded gas bubbles in the GI tract to coalesce and be expelled.

Pharmacodynamics

Simethicone decreases the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating their expulsion. It has a short duration of action as it is generally given as needed, and a wide therapeutic index as it is not systemically absorbed.