Gastroenterology and hepatology are dynamic and changing fields. Recent scientific advances have improved the understanding of disease pathogenesis and have made possible more effective therapies than ever available previously. An enormous number of individuals are afflicted with these gastrointestinal and hepatic disorders and conditions. This article has systematically presented some of the most prevalent gastrointestional disorders with emphasis on current therapies, recent advances, and future directions in disease management. The material presented is intended as a review which the authors hope will be helpful in caring for patients with these conditions.