ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

What class of medication could be a factor in managing gastrointestinal symptoms?

1. Antidepressant

2. Allergy medication

3. Beta blocker

4. Antipsychotic

The correct answer is: Beta blocker

Beta blockers are primarily used to manage cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension and heart rhythm disorders. However, they can also have an impact on gastrointestinal symptoms. This is due to their ability to decrease sympathetic nervous system activity, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders such as anxiety-related symptoms, including those manifesting as gastrointestinal distress. Moreover, beta blockers can decrease gastric acid secretion and may provide some relief in conditions like peptic ulcers or esophageal spasms, where stress and increased sympathetic activity can exacerbate symptoms. In contrast, antidepressants may also have gastrointestinal side effects, but they act primarily on mood disorders rather than directly managing gastrointestinal symptoms. Allergy medications mainly address allergic responses and do not have a role in managing gastrointestinal issues. Antipsychotics can influence gastrointestinal function due to their effects on neurotransmitter systems, but they are not typically used as a first-line treatment for gastrointestinal symptoms. Therefore, when considering the management of gastrointestinal symptoms, beta blockers can play a more direct supportive role compared to the other classes of medication listed.