G.R.O.A.

MEDICATIONS AND THE OSTOMATE via Metro Maryland

Sigmoid colostomates have fewer problems absorbing medication, but the ileostomate and transverse colostomate may not absorb some formulations as well, and therefore may not get full benefits from the medication.

LIQUID MEDICINES are more rapidly absorbed.

CHEWABLE TABLETS, dissolution of the drug begins when the tablet is swallowed. THEY MUST BE CHEWED CORRECTLY. Fragments have been reported in the effluent.

UNCOATED TABLETS - begin to dissolve in the stomach but the complete time taken to dissolve may vary among different products.

GELATIN CAPSULES - less efficient than liquids, but are still effective. Possibly ineffective for the ostomate who has a short bowel syndrome.

ENTERIC COATED TABLETS - dissolution is delayed and these tablets may be ineffective in the colostomate. Should be avoided by the ileostomate and those with short bowel syndrome.

SUSTAINED RELEASE MEDICATION - these medicines take 8-12 hours for absorption, and should be avoided by the ileostomate, the transverse colostomate and those with short bowel syndrome.

PAIN MEDICATIONS - can cause constipation. DIURETICS that are potassium-wasting should be avoided by the ileostomate. ANITBIOTICS may cause diarrhea, and in addition are not well absorbed. The ostomate receives less benefit.

LAXATIVES - should never be used by the ileostomate or the transverse colostomate. Mineral oil, psylium or other bulk producing products may be helpful to the sigmoid colostomate. Mineral oil may also be instilled into the stoma of the sigmoid colostomate before irrigation. (Check with your Doctor or ET on this please)

ANTACIDS - calcium-containing products should be avoided by urostomates due to the possibility of stone formation. Calcium and magnesium products should be avoided by the ileostomate due to the laxative effect they produce. Aluminum compounds (such as Amphogel) have and anti-diarrhea and can be used even when a person has diarrhea.

SALT-SUBSTITUTES - these reduce sodium intake and should be avoided by the ileostomate.

SULFA MEDICATION - if used by the urostomate, large quantities of water will minimize crystallization. If ascorbic acid is taken, it should be discontinued while sulfa is being used.

DO NOT STOP ANY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS UNLESS BY DR’s PERMISSION

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