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Peptic Ulcer Prophylaxis

Peptic ulcers are sores that form in the lining of the stomach, and the same term covers ulcers in the duodenum, the part of the intestine just beyond it. Prophylaxis means preventing those sores from developing, which is the aim when someone is at risk of them. The usual symptom is a burning pain in the upper abdomen, often worse at night. Most people recover with treatment.

Medicine used to treat Peptic Ulcer Prophylaxis

Cytotec

Misoprostol

100 · 200mcg

Misoprostol tablets are sold as Cytotec for gastric and duodenal ulcers and to prevent peptic ulcers caused by NSAIDs. Several strengths and pack sizes are available, and prices are given per tablet.

FromUS$0.91/ tabletView

Key points

  • Peptic ulcer disease includes both gastric ulcers in the stomach and duodenal ulcers in the intestine just past it.
  • The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen, has a burning quality, and is often worse at night.
  • Ulcers can be serious, but most people recover with treatment.

What peptic ulcers are

A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum. The two sites are described separately as gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers, and prevention of either is covered under peptic ulcer prophylaxis. Sores can be serious, though most people recover with treatment.

Symptoms

Pain is the main symptom. It is usually in the upper part of the tummy, may feel like burning rather than aching, and is often worse at night. Other symptoms include indigestion, heartburn, bloating, and feeling or being sick.

Treatment and prevention

Cytotec tablets contain misoprostol and are supplied in 100 mcg and 200 mcg strengths. The tablet is listed for gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer and peptic ulcer prophylaxis. More options for digestive complaints are grouped under digestive health. Pharmacy partners in India ship to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

When to get advice

Because ulcers can be serious, ongoing or worsening tummy pain should be assessed by a doctor. If you are unsure whether misoprostol suits your situation, speak to a pharmacist or doctor before ordering.

What the sources say

  • Stomach ulcers are described as sores in the stomach (NHS).
  • The main symptom is abdominal pain, usually in the upper part of the tummy, which may feel like burning and is often worse at night (NHS).
  • Indigestion, heartburn, bloating and feeling or being sick are listed as further symptoms (NHS).

Further reading

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