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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common cause of non-organic recurrent abdominal pain in children. IBS is a clinical diagnosis, which is based on the Rome IV criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders in children, as well as the patient's history. The diagnosis of IBS is established following the exclusion of organic causes of recurrent abdominal pain. Staggered investigations should be avoided because they might increase the child's and family's anxiety in the absence of an organic diagnosis. In most cases, providing a positive diagnosis of IBS and explaining the current understanding of the functional pathophysiology of the condition and management strategies gives reassurance to the child and their family. Management is based on dietary, pharmacological and biopsychosocial interventions. IBS can be a debilitating condition, with effects on activities of daily living, education and social interactions. Nurses working in various clinical settings will encounter children with IBS and have an important role in the management of children with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on issues related to iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is a reduced content of body iron. Adults normally have about 2-6 gram total body iron. About 80 per cent of total body iron is incorporated into hemoglobin and a small amount in myoglobin. The daily iron requirement for women is doubled during pregnancy. Iron balance is regulated in the gastrointestinal tract by absorption, it is a function of the duodenum and upper jejunum. Haem iron, which is found in meat, poultry and fish, is more readily absorbed than non-haem iron. The latter is found in plant-derived, iron-fortified food and supplements. In the form of hemoglobin, iron is a carrier of oxygen to the tissues. As myoglobin, it is necessary for oxygen use and storage in muscles.

The article discusses the over-the-counter (OTC) products used for the treatment of nausea and vomiting. Such products include antihistamines, bismuth subsalicylate and phosphorated carbohydrate solution. It cites several factors that should be considered when choosing OTC products, including the patient's age, whether the patient is pregnant or lactating, and the patient's present medication profile.

This article deals with pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions that can help provide relief to patients suffering from opioid-induced constipation (OIC). Particular focus is given to the pathophysiology of OIC and other gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects of opioid. One example of nonpharmacologic interventions is encouraging patients to practice good toileting habits. Pharmacologic options for OIC include mineral oil, osmotics/hyperosmotics, stimulant laxatives, and stool softeners.

The article evaluates several drugs, including Aciphex, an antiulcer agent from Eisai Corp. of North America, Aptipus, a protease inhibitor from Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., and Kinrix, anti-polio vaccine from GlaxoSmithKlline.

The article focuses on laxatives, which are agents that facilitate evacuation of the bowel. The article notes that laxatives should be used in cases of bowel investigations, gastrointestinal disease, and colonic constipation, among other conditions. It discusses laxatives groups, administration, contraindications, and interactions. Managing the adverse effects of laxatives is also discussed.

The article informs about a research from the National Eye Institute (NEI) that states that retina immune cells involved in autoimmune uveitis start in the gut.

The article discusses the increase in the number of prescription drugs approved for over-the-counter (OTC) sales. Such successful prescription drugs are Seldane, the antihistamine touted in advertisements as non-sedating, and Carafate, a gastrointestinal product, are likely to be approved for OTC sales. The onslaught of new remedies is expected to boost the market in manufacturing sales by year 2000. Industry analysts expect Carafate to compete in the multi-million antacid segment dominated by Maalox, Mylanta, Tums, Rolaids and Pepto-Bismol.

The article evaluates the Lansoprazole Delayed-Release Capsules from Sandoz Inc.

The article evaluates a television advertisement for laxatives. The soundtrack for the advertisement, produced by Swedish company Plan8, features offbeat and quirky keyboard melodies and noises that resemble swirling and a stomach grumbling to evoke the pain and discomfort of gastrointestinal problems.

Traces the history of the development of the drug Tagamet or cimetidine, an antiulcer agent. Chemical name; CAS Registry number; Other names; Year introduced; Company which introduced the drug; Actions of the drug; Negative effects; Companies which produce the drug.

Traces the history of the development of medical marijuana, an antiemetic agent. Chemical name; CAS Registry number; Production volume; Actions of the drug; Negative effects; Companies which produce the drug.

Reports on the status of Procter & Gamble in 2004. Increase in sales in the period ended June 30, 2004; Gastrointestinal drugs manufactured by the company that contributed to its growth; Viability of the company in the diaper market in the U.S.

Reveals how Ex-lax breaks an estimated $10 million ad campaign. Reason why the reformulated laxative marketed by Novartis Consumer Health has been pulled out in the shelves; Comment from Rob Hahn, associate brand manager at Novartis, on the advertising technique used in the advertisement campaign.