Prokinetic agent

A Prokinetic agent (pronounced: pro-ki-net-ic agent) is a type of pharmaceutical drug that enhances gastrointestinal motility by increasing the frequency or strength of contractions, but without disrupting their rhythm.

Etymology

The term "Prokinetic agent" is derived from the Greek words "pro" meaning "forward" and "kinesis" meaning "movement". This refers to the drug's ability to stimulate movement in the gastrointestinal tract.

Function

Prokinetic agents are used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastroparesis, and constipation. They work by stimulating the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, which helps to speed up the time it takes for food to move through the stomach and intestines.

Types of Prokinetic agents

There are several types of prokinetic agents, including metoclopramide, domperidone, and erythromycin. Each of these drugs works in a slightly different way to stimulate the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a prokinetic agent that works by blocking the dopamine receptors in the brain and gastrointestinal tract. This helps to speed up the time it takes for food to move through the stomach and intestines.

Domperidone

Domperidone is a prokinetic agent that works by blocking the dopamine receptors in the brain. This helps to speed up the time it takes for food to move through the stomach and intestines.

Erythromycin

Erythromycin is a prokinetic agent that works by stimulating the motilin receptors in the gastrointestinal tract. This helps to speed up the time it takes for food to move through the stomach and intestines.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, prokinetic agents can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, they can also cause serious neurological side effects, such as tardive dyskinesia.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Prokinetic agent
Wikipedia's article - Prokinetic agent

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Prokinetic agent