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Role of H2RA and Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy in Treating Reflux Disease

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Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Abstract

H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the primary classes of medication prescribed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients. While these medications can be used alone or in combination, PPIs demonstrate superior symptom control and healing of esophagitis. They also play an important role in the management of patients with nonerosive reflux disease, nocturnal reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, peptic strictures, and extraesophageal disease. Both classes of medication are safe and well tolerated, with a low risk of adverse events. However, PPIs are often overused and should be selectively reserved for patients with severe complications of GERD or intractable symptoms. Patients with milder GERD symptoms may be treated with H2RAs or antacids.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition, Joy McCann Culverhouse Swallowing Center, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 72, 33612, Tampa, FL, USA

    John W. Jacobs Jr. MD & Joel E. Richter MD

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  1. John W. Jacobs Jr. MD
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  2. Joel E. Richter MD
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Correspondence to Joel E. Richter MD .

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  1. Department of Gastroenterology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA

    Michael F. Vaezi

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Jacobs, J., Richter, J. (2016). Role of H2RA and Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy in Treating Reflux Disease. In: Vaezi, M. (eds) Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-19524-7_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-19524-7_5

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