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Ulcer Treatment
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Peptic Ulcer Disease
Treatment for Peptic Ulcer
Treatment recommendations of the American College of Gastroenterology are based on the realization that peptic ulcer disease is usually the result of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, or is caused by taking prescription or non prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. The first step is to stop taking NSAIDs or aspirin if they are used. Successful eradication of the infection cures most patients who are not taking aspirin or a NSAID.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): (HELL-ih-koh-BAK-tur py-LOH-ree) A spiral shaped type of bacteria that weakens the protective mucous coating of the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), which allows acid to get through to the sensitive lining beneath. Both the acid and the bacteria irritate the lining and cause a sore, or ulcer.
Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease, active peptic ulcer disease, or gastric lymphoma (stomach cancer), should be tested for H. pylori infection. If they test positive, they should be treated with antibiotic therapy. If the tests are negative for H. pylori infection, patients are treated with traditional ulcer therapy that blocks the production of stomach acid and protects the tissues lining the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). For NSAID induced ulcers, cytoprotective agents, or drugs that coat and protect the stomach mucosa, may be used.
Drug Classes Used For Treatment of Peptic Ulcer Disease
Antacids - Antacids neutralize or reduce stomach acids
- Aluminum and Magnesium Hydroxide: (Alamag, Aludrox, Di-Gel, Maalox, Magnalox, Mylanta, Rulox)
- Calcium Carbonate: (Alka-Mints, Amitone, Calel-D, Caltrate 600, Chooz, Dicarbosil, Equilent, Mallamint, Os-Cal 500, Rolaids Calcium Rich, Titralac, Tums)
Cytoprotective Agents - Cytoprotective agents work in different ways. Some of them stimulate mucus production and enhance blood flow throughout the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Other cytoprotective agents form a coating that protects the ulcerated tissue and promotes the healing process
- Misoprostol (Cytotec)
- Sucralfate (Carafate)
Helicobacter Pylori Treatment Regimens
Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori, is a bacteria responsible for more than 90 percent of ulcers. To heal ulcers caused by H. pylori, multi drug regimens are needed. These regimens consist of antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2-Blockers, and and cytoprotective agents. Also available are combination products, Helidac and Prevpac, that contain combinations of the above drug classes.
- Bismuth Subsalicylate, Metronidazole, and Tetracycline Combination (Helidac)
- Lansoprazole, Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin (Prevpac)
For more information about Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and ulcers, see your health care provider or call Toll Free 1-888-MY-ULCER.
Page 1 Ulcer Treatment
Page 2 Ulcer Treatment
References:
www.cdc.gov/ulcer/
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