Best Medication for Ulcer Treatment

In the United States, it is estimated that nearly four million adults have an ulcer. Ulcers are holes that form in the upper gastrointestinal tract lining. The most common cause is the Helicobacter pylori bacterium. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also cause ulcers. There are a variety of different medication for ulcer treatment that patients can use to help deal with the symptoms and sometimes help in healing them.

Famotidine

Famotidine is classified as a histamine-2 blocker. This drug works by reducing how much acid is produced by the stomach. This drug may be prescribed for a variety of reasons, but mostly to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers. Patients may experience muscle cramps or joint pain, nausea or vomiting, dry mouth, weakness or dizziness, headache, mood changes, constipation or diarrhea.

Glycopyrrolate

Glycopyrrolate is classified as an anticholinergic. This medication has a variety of uses, including helping to treat stomach ulcers. This medication works by blocking the activity of acetylcholine (a chemical in the body), responsible for reducing secretions, as well as certain side effects of other medications. Common side effects may include feeling bloated, constipation, reduced sweating, drowsiness, dry skin, headache, nausea, injection site pain/redness/swelling, weakness, blurred vision, reduced milk production, dizziness, dry mouth, enlarged pupils, loss of taste, nervousness and sleeplessness.

Pantoprazole

Pantoprazole is classified as a proton pump inhibitor. This medication works by reducing how much acid produced by the stomach. This medication for ulcers is primarily prescribed for gastroesophageal reflux disease, but may also be beneficial to patients with ulcers as well. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, dizziness, stomach pain, vomiting and joint pain.

Aluminum Hydroxide

Aluminum hydroxide is classified as an antacid. This drug is often prescribed to relieve the pain associated with ulcers and helps to heal them. This drug may also be beneficial in reducing how much phosphate are in the blood in those who have kidney disease. Common side effects include loss of appetite and constipation.

Methscopolamine

Methscopolamine is classified as an anticholinergic. This drug works by reducing how much acid is produced by the stomach. It is also said to be beneficial in relaxing the intestinal and stomach muscles. While this drug does not appear to be effective in preventing ulcer-related problems, recurring ulcers, or healing ulcers, it may help to relieve stomach pain. Common side effects may include dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, abdominal bloating, drowsiness, weakness, dry eyes and constipation.

Chlordiazepoxide and Clidinium Bromide

Clidinium bromide and chlordiazepoxide is a type of combination medications that may help to treat stomach ulcers. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, weakness, difficulty sleeping, heartburn, appetite changes, fatigue, and excitement.

Resources

Vann, M. MPH. (2010). What is an Ulcer? Retrieved on January 10, 2011 from Everyday Health: https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/ulcer/understanding-peptic-ulcers.aspx

Drugs.com. (2010). Peptic Ulcer Medications. Retrieved on January 10, 2011 from Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/condition/peptic-ulcer.html