South African Family Practice (Jul 2017)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux: an overview of the pharmacotherapeutic treatment options
Abstract
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) produces symptoms that cause great irritation to the patient. Pharmacotherapeutic management is directed at minimising these symptoms and reducing the causative factors, e.g. acid production, thereby providing relief. Currently available agents include simple antacids and acid suppression therapy, including histamine 2-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, mucosal or cytoprotective agents and pro-motility agents. Deciding on appropriate therapy will depend on the diagnosis, side-effects and cost-effectiveness of the treatment.
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