Peptic Ulcer Disease
Medications
Medicines are used to:
- Treat peptic ulcers by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
- Kill Reference Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria if they are infecting the stomach lining.
- Protect the lining of the stomach and upper small intestine from injury caused by Reference nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These include aspirin, ibuprofen (such as Advil), and naproxen (such as Aleve).
Medicine choices
Medicines to reduce stomach acid
Medicines that reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach are used to treat all forms of peptic ulcer disease.
- Reference Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (such as Prilosec). Some PPIs are available without a prescription.
- Reference H2 blockers (such as Zantac). Some H2 blockers are available without a prescription.
- Reference Antacids (such as Tums).
Medicines to kill H. pylori bacteria
Doctors prescribe Reference combination drug therapy to cure infection with H. pylori bacteria. This usually includes at least two antibiotics, a proton pump inhibitor, and sometimes a bismuth compound.
Medicines to protect the stomach
Medicines used to protect the stomach from damage caused by frequent use of aspirin or other NSAIDs include:
- Reference Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (such as Prilosec).
- Reference H2 blockers (such as Zantac).
- Reference Prostaglandin analogs (such as Cytotec).
You can get some H2 blockers and PPIs without a prescription (Reference over the counter Opens New Window or OTC). If you are using OTC acid reducers (such as Prilosec or Pepcid) to help with your symptoms for more than 10 to 14 days at a time, or if your symptoms are very bad, be sure to see your doctor.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
