Inhibition of gastric acid secretion

The inhibition of gastric acid secretion may be achieved in two ways:

• H2 antagonists:
  • ranitidine 150 mg bd or 300 mg nocte for 4-8 weeks
  • ranitidine is preferred over cimetidine because it has fewer side effects and drug interactions
  • both drugs are effective for the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulceration
  • relapse of ulcer disease is common when therapy is discontinued
    
    
• proton pump inhibitors:
  • the most commonly used example is omeprazole
  • acts for 24 hr (longer than H2 inhibitors)
  • are the first-line treatment for management of dyspepsia in primary care (1)

Reference:

1. NICE (August 2004). Dyspepsia - management of dyspepsia in adults in primary care