Question: What Are the Uses of PPIs?
Answer: Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are used in the treatment of GERD, stomach and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Doctors may prescribe PPIs alone or in combination with antacids. PPIs may also be used in combination with certain antibiotics (e.g. amoxicillin and clarithromycin) when treating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection (a bacterial infection of the stomach), which is thought to be one of the main causes of recurring stomach ulcers.
Proton Pump Inhibitors include:
- Aciphex (raberprazole)
- Nexium (esomeprazole)
- Prevacid (lansoprazole)
- Prilosec (omeprazole)
- Protonix (pantoprazole)
For more information on these medications, and others, please go to Drugs A to Z.
Sources:
Kenneth R. DeVault, MD, FACG, and Donald O. Castell, MD, MACG, "Updated Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease." doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.41217.x. American College of Gastroenterology. 6 Jun 2008
"Understanding Some of the Medications Often Prescribed for GERD & Ulcers." Common GI Problems: Volume 1. American College of Gastroenterology. 6 Jun 2008
