Peptic ulcer disease is a condition of ulcers or sores that form in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. Some people with peptic ulcer disease may complain about pain in the upper part of the stomach, pain when they have an empty stomach, when they do not have an appetite, or may be experiencing nausea, vomiting, or bloating. Complications of untreated peptic ulcers include bleeding and the eventual formation of a hole in the stomach wall. The most common cause is an infection caused by the bacteria Heliobacter pylori. Other risk factors for peptic ulcers include frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Motrin), smoking cigarettes, excessive drinking of alcohol and radiation treatments.
Effective treatment involves a combination of medications to reduce stomach acid, kill bacteria, and help prevent the bacteria from coming back. Total treatment may take five to fifteen days of therapy, but scans may be necessary to determine the total duration of therapy. Antibiotics that are commonly used to kill H. pylori include clarithromycin (Biaxin), tetracycline, and metronidazole (Flagyl). Proton pump inhibitors (Prevacid, Nexium, or Prilosec) are taken to reduce stomach acid and allow the ulcer to heal.
Jeff Scott, President & Pharmacist
Brought to you by Cheek & Scott Drugs, Inc.
A Community Pharmacy serving North Central Florida.
Live Oak:
386-362-2591
1520 Ohio Ave South; Live Oak, FL 32064
Lake City:
386-754-5377
161 Stonegate Ter; Suite 105; Lake City, FL 32024
Online:
www.CheekAndScott.com
Disclaimer
No comments:
Post a Comment