Treatments for Peptic Ulcer Disease

The treatment and management of peptic ulcers involves lifestyle changes, medications, alternative and complementary therapies, and surgery. The goals of treatment include:

Elimination of H. pylori infection if present
Treating excess bleeding
Promoting healing of the ulcer
Relieving pain and discomfort
Avoiding the development of complications such as perforation, obstruction
Preventing ulcer recurrence

Treatment may involve the following:

Lifestyle changes Medications Alternative and complementary therapies Surgery

References

H. pylori and peptic ulcers. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/hpylori/index.aspx. Updated April 30, 2012. Accessed April 29, 2013.

Meurer LN, Bower DJ. Management of helicobacter pylori infection. Am Fam Physician. 2002;65(7):1327-36.

Peptic ulcer disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php. Updated April 22, 2013. Accessed April 29, 2013.

Understanding peptic ulcer disease. American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: http://www.gastro.org/patient-center/digestive-conditions/peptic-ulcer-disease. Published April 23, 2010. Accessed April 29, 2013.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Daus Mahnke, MD; Brian Randall, MD
Review Date: 04/2013
Update Date: 04/29/2013

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.