Medical Marketing and Media - Expert panel rates GERD drugs
A panel of experts appointed by the Amerian Gastroenterological Association reached a consensus that there is some, but not much, difference in efficacy among OTC drugs and Rx drugs for the treatment of GERD.
Among prescription drugs, standard doses of proton pump inhibitors Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, and Aciphex produce comparable rates of healing and remission in patients with erosive esophagitis, the panel states. Nexium may require a shorter time and is slightly more effective in relieving heartburn and healing erosive esophagitis, though clinical significance has not been substantiated.
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Patients with mild to moderate heartburn not exceeding four weeks in duration can achieve rapid, effective, and safe relief with OTC agents, according to expert opinion. They can choose between antacids such as Turns or Rolaids, and among H2 receptor antagonists such as Tagamet HB, Pepcid AC, Axid AR, and Zantac 75. All have been effective in relieving mild to moderate GERD, according to the consensus statement.
Pepcid Complete, a combination of an H2 receptor antagonist and an antacid, was found to be better at symptom relief than the components used separately. Panelists recommend that consumers consult a physician only if they experience severe, frequent, or prolonged symptoms for more than four weeks, thereby emphasizing the use of OTC drugs.
Copyright CPS Communications Dec 2002
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