Role of Proton Pump Inhibitors in the Management of Peptic Ulcer

Abstract

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the upper gastrointestinal tract including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) and dyspepsia. PPIs are also useful in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection as well as the prevention of upper gastrointestinal tract ulcers and bleeding in patients who are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is critical to get the best clinical response possible for people with an upper gastrointestinal peptic disorder. This is dependent on the PPI used. Although all members of this class suppress active parietal cell acid secretion in the same way, there are minor variations in pharmacokinetic characteristics, metabolism and FDA-approved therapeutic indications among PPIs. Regardless of this, each is successful in treating GERD and peptic ulcers. Despite their overall effectiveness, PPIs have certain drawbacks, including short plasma half-lives and the need for meal-associated dosing, which can cause breakthrough symptoms in some people, particularly at night. This article discusses the current indications for PPIs in the treatment of peptic ulcers, as well as their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.