#37 - How to REALLY study Pharmacology: IBS v IBD Medications

IBS and IBD are two of the most commonly confused conditions. ⁣
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Here's the easy breakdown:⁣
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IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a condition where the body see's certain FOODs (chemicals, spices, ingredients, etc) as an enemy and reacts with abdominal pain, cramping, constipation and/or diarrhea. ⁣
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IBD (inflammatory Bowel Disease) is a condition where the body see's ITSELF (body tissue, cells, etc.) as an enemy and attacks the lining of the GI tract causing lesions, bleeding, cramping, pain, and the potential for deadly perforation and infection.⁣

As you can imagine, the treatment for both conditions is VASTLY different:⁣
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IBS can be controlled by identifying and avoiding food triggers (H2 Blockers, PPI's, and TCA's can help with symptoms).⁣
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IBD is not controlled with food, but with medications that suppress the immune response. The goal is to suppress the immune system so that it ignores what it thinks is the enemy (it's own GI tissue) (Immunosuppressants, Steroids, and antibiotics to avoid infection from bowel lesions are common treatments). ⁣
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Save this, tag a friend, never miss an exam question on IBS and IBD again!!⁣
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Photo cred: One of my awesome students❤