Protectants and adsorbents

PROTECTANTS AND ADSORBENTS

  • Kaolin-pectin suspensions (20% kaolin (hydrated aluminium silicate) and 1 % pectin ( a polygalacturonic acid carbohydrate polymer)
  • Bismuth subsalicylate.

Mechanism of action

  • Protectives and adsorbents adsorb toxins and provide a protective coating on inflamed mucosa.
  • Bismuth subsalicylate has an anti - prostaglandin action in addition to its adsorbent properties.
  • Uses: Protectants and adsorbents are used for the symptomatic therapy of acute diarrhea. Adsorbents may decrease fluidity of feces without actually decreasing fecal water loss, thereby limiting their usefulness.

Adminsitration

  • Kaolin – pectin suspensions are administered orally every 4-6 hours. Kaolin pectin is effective in dogs, cats, birds, horses, cattle, sheep and wine.
  • Bismuth subsalicylate is administered orally every 4-6 hours . Bismuth subsalicylate is approved for use in dogs, horses, cattle and wine. Salicylates hould not be administered to cats.
  • Adverse effects: Bismuth subsalicylate may produce dark feces, which should not be confused with melena.

Last modified: Wednesday, 25 April 2012, 10:30 AM