What GI effect is commonly seen with medications such as narcotics or diphenhydramine?

What GI effect is commonly seen with medications such as narcotics or diphenhydramine?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Anticholinergic effects leading to constipation
• D. Gastric ulcers

Answer: (C)

Medications like narcotics and diphenhydramine commonly cause constipation because they have anticholinergic effects that slow the gut. Opiates act on mu receptors in the GI tract to reduce propulsion and increase water reabsorption from stool, leading to harder stools and fewer bowel movements. Diphenhydramine, with anticholinergic activity, similarly decreases GI secretions and slows motility, producing constipation. This is why constipation is the typical GI effect seen with these drugs. Weight gain or diarrhea don’t fit the expected pattern (diarrhea is the opposite of slowed motility), and gastric ulcers aren’t a direct result of these mechanisms. Clinically, anticipate constipation with these meds and manage with suitable laxatives or other strategies as needed.

Medications like narcotics and diphenhydramine commonly cause constipation because they have anticholinergic effects that slow the gut. Opiates act on mu receptors in the GI tract to reduce propulsion and increase water reabsorption from stool, leading to harder stools and fewer bowel movements. Diphenhydramine, with anticholinergic activity, similarly decreases GI secretions and slows motility, producing constipation. This is why constipation is the typical GI effect seen with these drugs. Weight gain or diarrhea don’t fit the expected pattern (diarrhea is the opposite of slowed motility), and gastric ulcers aren’t a direct result of these mechanisms. Clinically, anticipate constipation with these meds and manage with suitable laxatives or other strategies as needed.