Other GI agents
Nausea, constipation and cramps
Nausea and vomiting, constipation, irritable bowel symptoms, and acid when a PPI isn't needed.
Each targets a different part of the gut: blocking a nausea signal, drawing water into the stool, or relaxing cramping muscle.
The 6 other gi agents in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Famotidine | Pepcid | GERD, heartburn |
| Ondansetron | Zofran | nausea, vomiting |
| Docusate | Colace | constipation (softener) |
| Linaclotide | Linzess | IBS-C, chronic constipation |
| Dicyclomine | Bentyl | IBS, gut spasms |
| Polyethylene Glycol 3350 | MiraLAX | constipation (osmotic) |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleFamotidine is an H2 blocker — it reduces acid, but less completely than a PPI.
- check_circleOndansetron is available as an orally disintegrating tablet for patients who are vomiting.
- check_circlePolyethylene glycol 3350 is an osmotic laxative mixed into liquid.
- check_circleDocusate is a stool softener, not a stimulant laxative.
Ondansetron can prolong the QT interval, which matters when it's combined with other QT-prolonging drugs.
Know the difference between a stool softener, an osmotic laxative and a stimulant — they are not interchangeable.
Drill other gi agents the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What drugs are in the other gi agents class? add
Famotidine, Ondansetron, Docusate, Linaclotide, Dicyclomine, Polyethylene Glycol 3350. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are other gi agents used for? add
Nausea and vomiting, constipation, irritable bowel symptoms, and acid when a PPI isn't needed.
How do other gi agents work? add
Each targets a different part of the gut: blocking a nausea signal, drawing water into the stool, or relaxing cramping muscle.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.