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Comparative efficacy of proton pump inhibitors VS. H2 receptor antagonists in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

S. Khan, A. Muneeb, M. Ahmad

Biological and Clinical Sciences Research Journal, 2024

800 participants

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition characterized by acid reflux into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Objective: To compare the efficacy of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 Receptor Antagonists (H2RAs) in treating GERD in a cohort of 800 patients, assessing symptom relief, healing rates, and side effects. Methods: A total of 800 patients diagnosed with GERD were added to receive either PPIs (n=400) or H2RAs (n=400) for a treatment period of 8 weeks. The primary outcome was improved GERD symptoms, measured using a standardized GERD symptom questionnaire. Results: The study found that the PPI group demonstrated a significantly higher improvement in symptom relief, with 78% achieving complete symptom resolution compared to 54% in the H2RA group (p < 0.05). Esophageal healing rates were also superior in the PPI group, with 84% showing complete healing compared to 62% in the H2RA group. Furthermore, the time to symptom relief was shorter in the PPI group (average of 5 days) compared to the H2RA group (8 days). Adverse effects were minimal and comparable between the two groups, with mild headaches (8% vs. 6%) and gastrointestinal discomfort (10% vs. 9%) being the most frequently reported. Conclusion: Proton Pump Inhibitors are more effective than H2 Receptor Antagonists in relieving symptoms, accelerating symptom resolution, and promoting esophageal healing in patients with GERD. Although both treatments are…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 800 participants or records.

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