The digestion of food involves the release of gastric acid from parietal cells of the stomach, digestive enzymes and mucus. An imbalance between acid production and the mucus barrier protecting the epithelium lead to tissue damage through the corrosive action of gastric acid, which may cause peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers are characterized by mucosal bleeding and when located near the pyloric sphincter, obstruction of food leaving the stomach.
Symptoms of peptic ulcers include a burning sensation in the chest, nausea, vomiting and in more severe cases persistent stomach pain and blood in the stool or vomit.
Causes of ulcers also include H. pylori bacteria infection, frequent use of NSAID painkillers such as aspirin, genetic causes, alcohol and stress. Treatment and medications for ulcers include antibiotics to get rid of H. pylori bacterial infection, medications which inhibit acid production such as proton pump inhibitors, and mucosal strengtheners such as antacids and prostaglandins.
Antibiotics That Get Rid of Bacteria That Cause Ulcers
A number of different antibiotics are used to treat ulcers caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Usually a triple therapy using two antibiotics, usually clarythromycin plus either metronidazole or amoxicillin, along with a proton pump inhibitor is used.
Medications that Stop Acid Secretion
Proton pump inhibitors include medications such as omeprazole, lansopranzole, rabeprazole and pantoprazole. These stop acid secretion caused by various stimuli in the stomach. These drugs are highly effective. resulting in 90% inhibition of acid production for a 24 hour period. Side effects include headache and skin rashes.
Medications that Protect the Lining of the Stomach
Prostaglandins are protective medicines which inhibits acid secretion, promotes bicarbonate formation (makes secretions more alkaline) and mucus secretion and increases blood flow to help healing of the stomach and intestinal lining. Prostaglandins such as misoprostol are sometimes prescribed for patients taking NSAIDs for prolonged periods to prevent damage and ulcers. Side effects may include diarrhea and abdominal cramps and should be avoided in pregnancy.
The medication sucralfate forms a gel in the stomach that binds to the ulcer to form a physical barrier against acid and pepsin erosion. It also reduces the number of H. pylori bacteria. Side effects may include renal dysfunction and constipation.
Antacids are the most common medications for ulcers and heartburn. The medications that are available without a prescription and work by neutralizing acid in the stomach. They are usually taken after eating and provide immediate relief in dyspepsia and heart burn. Antacids include aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate. Side effects may include constipation and diarrhea.
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