Abstract | BACKGROUND: RESULTS: PPIs are the gold standard for treatment of reflux symptoms. OTC therapy with histamine(2) receptor antagonists (H2RAs) also plays a role. For the majority affected by reflux symptoms, effective symptom control is the most important outcome, as only a subgroup requires investigations or interventions. However, patients with alarm features (i.e. troublesome dysphagia, weight loss, predominant upper abdominal pain) are not recommended for OTC therapy and need prompt medical referral. Frequent relapses or failure to adequately respond to OTC therapy are additional triggers for medical assessment. CONCLUSIONS: OTC treatment of typical reflux symptoms ( acid regurgitation, heartburn) with antacids and H2RAs is now accepted as safe and results in short-term relief of symptoms. There is no evidence of additional risk with OTC PPIs compared to these existing OTC therapies and PPIs are significantly more efficacious.
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Authors | Sebastian Haag, Jane M Andrews, Peter H Katelaris, Judith Gapasin, Jean Paul Galmiche, Richard Hunt, Peter Layer, Peter Malfertheiner, Gerald Holtmann |
Journal | Digestion
(Digestion)
Vol. 80
Issue 4
Pg. 226-34
( 2009)
ISSN: 1421-9867 [Electronic] Switzerland |
PMID | 19844107
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
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Copyright | 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel. |
Chemical References |
- Nonprescription Drugs
- Proton Pump Inhibitors
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Topics |
- Gastroesophageal Reflux
(diagnosis, drug therapy)
- Humans
- Nonprescription Drugs
(therapeutic use)
- Practice Guidelines as Topic
- Proton Pump Inhibitors
(therapeutic use)
- Referral and Consultation
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