Publisher's Synopsis
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very common disorder bringing a large number of patients to physicians every day. In the early 1970s the treatment of the disease consisted mainly of antacid and lifestyle modifications, but recently developed agents have changed the management strategy. The many drugs available today create some difficulty for the physician who must write a prescription for his or her patient. This reference source will help physicians to make a rational choice from the available therapeutic options by reviewing in detail the evidence relating to individual drugs used in the medical treatment of GERD. The chapters describe the pharmacological profile and mechanism of action of currently available motor-stimulating and acid-lowering agents and also evaluate their place in the management of GERD. In addition, the role of mucosal protective agents in therapy is considered.
