
After completing the session, key learning points included:
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The pathophysiology of functional GI disorder is multifaceted, and includes genetics,
psychosocial factors, visceral hypersensitivity, inflammation and changes to
bacterial flora
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Patients with “red
flags” (e.g. dysphagia, weight loss >3 kg within 6 months) should be
referred to a physician
-
GI diseases can severely
impair quality of life, due to the unpredictable nature of symptoms and
associated emotional distress
-
Therapies for functional GI disorder are not curative,
but mainly target patient-specific
symptoms, such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal cramps and pain

-
Non-prescription antispasmodic
therapies (i.e. hyoscine butylbromide, dicyclomine hydrochloride) are effective and well tolerated for
abdominal pain and cramps, with a low incidence of anticholinergic side effects
As practice shifts towards pharmacy-based, minor ailments
programs, pharmacists are well equipped to embrace the challenges of assessing,
educating and treating a number of expanded health conditions. In line with
this philosophy, this CME was an excellent illustration of how pharmacist
involvement can positively impact the lives of patients with chronic, GI
disease.
Vivian