Medications

Histamine (H2) blockers: Four histamine blockers are available in the United States. Some are available without a prescription; others require a prescription.

• All work by blocking the release of acid from specialized glands in your stomach.
• The idea is that producing less acid allows your stomach to heal.
• Once healed, the previously inflamed stomach then causes no further symptoms.
• Commonly prescribed H2-blockers include cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), nizatidine (Axid), and ranitidine (Zantac).

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications are very powerful blockers of the stomach's ability to secrete acid.

• A health care provider who prescribes one of these medications to treat your gastritis may be doing so in consultation with a gastroenterologist.
• These medications include lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec, Losec).

Coating agents: These medications protect the stomach's lining.

• Sucralfate (Carafate) - Coats and protects the stomach lining
• Misoprostol (Cytotec) - Also protects the stomach lining, used as a preventive measure for people taking NSAIDs who are at high risk for developing stomach damage

Antibiotics: An antibiotic may be prescribed if H pylori is demonstrated to be the cause of your gastritis.

Antiemetics: These medications help control nausea and vomiting. A number of different antiemetics can be used in the emergency department to control those symptoms. Some these medications are available by prescription for home use as well.

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