Anti-ulcer agents

Drugs used to treat ulcers in the stomach and upper part of the small intestine

Anti-ulcer agents

Anti-ulcer agents are a class of medications used to treat peptic ulcer disease, which includes ulcers in the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum. These agents work by reducing gastric acid production, protecting the gastric mucosa, or eradicating Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with ulcer formation.

Types of Anti-ulcer Agents

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Amoxicillin, often used in combination with PPIs for H. pylori eradication

Proton pump inhibitors are a group of drugs that irreversibly block the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme system (the proton pump) of the gastric parietal cells. This action significantly reduces gastric acid secretion. Common PPIs include omeprazole, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole.

H2 Receptor Antagonists

H2 receptor antagonists, such as ranitidine and famotidine, work by blocking histamine receptors on gastric parietal cells, thereby reducing acid production. These agents are often used for mild to moderate cases of peptic ulcer disease.

Antacids

Antacids are substances that neutralize stomach acid. They provide quick relief from ulcer symptoms but do not promote healing. Common antacids include compounds of magnesium, aluminum, and calcium.

Cytoprotective Agents

Triamcinolone, a corticosteroid that can affect ulcer healing

Cytoprotective agents, such as sucralfate and misoprostol, protect the gastric mucosa from acid damage. Sucralfate forms a protective barrier over ulcers, while misoprostol, a prostaglandin analog, increases mucus and bicarbonate production.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are used in combination with other anti-ulcer agents to eradicate H. pylori infection. Common antibiotics used include amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and metronidazole.

Mechanism of Action

Anti-ulcer agents work through various mechanisms to reduce gastric acidity and promote healing of the gastric mucosa. PPIs and H2 receptor antagonists decrease acid production, while antacids neutralize existing acid. Cytoprotective agents enhance mucosal defense, and antibiotics target H. pylori infection.

Side Effects

Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a rare but serious side effect of some medications

The side effects of anti-ulcer agents vary depending on the class of drug. Common side effects of PPIs include headache, diarrhea, and nausea. H2 receptor antagonists may cause dizziness and constipation. Long-term use of PPIs has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures and vitamin B12 deficiency.

Clinical Use

Anti-ulcer agents are used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. They are also used in combination therapy for the eradication of H. pylori infection.

Related Pages

• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Helicobacter pylori
• Proton pump inhibitor
• H2 receptor antagonist