SYSTEMIC DRUG THERAPY

SYSTEMIC DRUG THERAPY

There are many different types of systemic medication therapy: those that treat the entire body

as a whole, or those that target specific bodily systems, such as the cardiovascular,

gastrointestinal, or nervous systems. Additionally, the treatment of mental health issues is

systemic.

The respiratory system

Acute bronchitis cough medications are the most commonly prescribed for respiratory

treatment. Only bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics. Expectorants and

humidification (steam therapy) are the most common treatments for colds and flus because

they help loosen or liquefy thick mucus and soothe the inflamed mucous lining. Despite the fact

that they are frequently recommended, no clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of these

treatments. The natural defensive mechanism of coughing, which is to clear the airway of fluids

and foreign substances, is also subverted by cough suppressants, which are designed to prevent

unneeded coughing. This non-opioid cough suppressant, dextromethorphan, is readily

accessible over the counter and is nearly as effective as codeine. Antihistamines and

decongestants may be helpful if nasal congestion and postnasal discharge are present.

Asthma is a condition in which the airways become obstructed, resulting in wheezing episodes.

Using bronchodilators to treat a mild to moderate asthma episode is beneficial. Corticosteroids

or other anti-inflammatory medications like cromolyn sodium or necromil sodium must be used

for long periods of time to control recurrent attacks.

Chronic cough and shortness of breath are the first symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary

disease (COPD), which usually appears in old age. Some benefit can still be gained by quitting

smoking, utilizing bronchodilators, and taking antibiotics early when a superimposed infection

appears, even when the majority of the harm has already been done. When a patient's

condition is grave, supplemental oxygen therapy may be necessary.

The gastrointestinal system

Diarrhea and constipation are routinely treated with medications, which either decrease or

increase lower gastrointestinal activity. To help with constipation, there are many different

types of laxatives that can be taken in the form of stimulants (such as cascara sagrada), bulk-

forming agents (like psyllium seed) or even lubricants (like mineral oil) that can be taken in the

form of laxatives. If the cause of the diarrhea is a bacterial infection, such as traveler's diarrhea,

antibiotics must be used, or an antiparasitic medication must be used if a parasite is to blame.

Narcotics (codeine, paregoric) and nonnarcotic analogues (loperamide hydrochloride) are used

to treat diarrhea, as well as bismuth subsalicylate, a nonnarcotic analogue (Pepto-Bismol).

Antibiotics and bismuth are commonly used to treat chronic gastritis and recurrent peptic

ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection. The H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., cimetidine)

and medicines that build a barrier to protect the stomach from the acid are used to treat ulcers

that are not caused by H. pylori (e.g., sucralfate). In addition to providing symptomatic relief,

anti-acids can be employed.

Vomiting and nausea are natural defense mechanisms that should not be ignored until the

underlying reason has been identified. They may be the result of mental illness or be brought

on by problems with the digestive or central nervous systems, drugs, or underlying health

issues (pregnancy or diabetic acidosis). The phenothiazines (e.g., Compazine) are among the

most commonly used antiemetics, although new medications are being researched to assist

reduce the vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.