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Peptic Ulcer Disease
What is on the horizon?
In recent years, many changes have occurred in the treatment of PUD. First, H. pylori was identified as a cause of PUD. Next, the H2 blockers became available as generic drugs. Then, all the H2 blockers went over-the-counter in reduced strengths that do not need prescriptions.
The most active area of new drug research involves a drug class called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) PPIs work quickly and well to treat PUD. Currently, there are five PPIs available in the US, but a number of similar compounds still in development may compete with these drugs in the future. Omeprazole is the only PPI available in a generic formulation, and will likely be the only one for the next few years.
Prilosec OTC (omeprazole), the only PPI available over the counter, will soon have a generic available. This will substantially reduce the cost, and provide additional treatment options for this very popular product.
Vaccines for H. pylori are being developed by multiple research teams around the world. A vaccine may become available for public use some time in the next three to five years.
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What is on the horizon?
