ATC code A07

The ATC code A07 is a classification used in the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System to categorize medications that are primarily used as antidiarrheals, intestinal anti-inflammatory, and anti-infective agents. This classification is part of the larger ATC code A group, which encompasses drugs used for the alimentary tract and metabolism.

Subgroups

ATC code A07 is divided into several subgroups, each targeting specific types of intestinal conditions. These subgroups include:

A07A: Intestinal anti-infectives

This subgroup includes medications used to treat infections of the intestine. Common agents include:

• A07AA: Antibiotics
• Neomycin
• Nystatin
• A07AB: Sulfonamides
• Sulfasalazine
• A07AC: Imidazole derivatives
• Metronidazole

A07B: Intestinal adsorbents

These agents work by adsorbing toxins and other substances in the gut. Examples include:

• A07BA: Charcoal preparations
• Activated charcoal
• A07BB: Bismuth preparations
• Bismuth subsalicylate

A07C: Electrolytes with carbohydrates

This subgroup includes oral rehydration solutions used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea.

• A07CA: Oral rehydration salts
• Oral rehydration therapy

A07D: Antipropulsives

These medications slow down intestinal motility to reduce diarrhea.

• A07DA: Opioids
• Loperamide
• Diphenoxylate

A07E: Intestinal anti-inflammatory agents

These drugs are used to treat inflammatory conditions of the intestine, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

• A07EA: Corticosteroids
• Budesonide
• A07EB: Other anti-inflammatory agents
• Mesalazine

A07F: Antidiarrheal micro-organisms

This subgroup includes probiotics used to restore normal gut flora.

• A07FA: Probiotics
• Lactobacillus
• Saccharomyces boulardii

Mechanism of Action

The medications within ATC code A07 work through various mechanisms to alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and intestinal inflammation:

• Antibiotics and anti-infectives target and eliminate pathogenic bacteria and other microorganisms causing intestinal infections.
• Adsorbents bind to toxins and other harmful substances in the gut, preventing their absorption and facilitating their excretion.
• Oral rehydration solutions replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, preventing dehydration.
• Antipropulsives reduce intestinal motility, allowing more time for water absorption and reducing stool frequency.
• Anti-inflammatory agents reduce inflammation in the intestinal lining, alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Probiotics help restore the natural balance of gut flora, which can be disrupted by infections or antibiotic use.

Clinical Applications

Medications classified under ATC code A07 are used in the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Acute diarrhea
• Chronic diarrhea
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Traveler's diarrhea

Safety and Side Effects

The safety profile and side effects of these medications vary depending on the specific agent used. Common side effects may include:

• Antibiotics: Gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions.
• Adsorbents: Constipation, black stools (with bismuth).
• Antipropulsives: Constipation, dizziness.
• Anti-inflammatory agents: Headache, nausea, risk of infection (with corticosteroids).
• Probiotics: Generally well-tolerated, but may cause bloating or gas.

Conclusion

ATC code A07 encompasses a diverse group of medications used to manage diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. These agents play a crucial role in both acute and chronic gastrointestinal conditions, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

References

• ATC/DDD Index 2023
• Example Journal Article on Antidiarrheals

See Also

• ATC code A
• Diarrhea
• Inflammatory bowel disease