Taking the Medicine Conventional drugs: Anti-Ulcer Drugs/Acid Suppressing Agents
What are they? Acid-suppressing agents are a form of anti-ulcer drug used to relieve the symptoms and aid the healing of gastric ulcers. This type of drug is often prescribed in conjunction with two antibiotics which in combination eradicate a bug called Helicobacter pylori, an organism found in many patients with peptic ulcers.
What's are they good for? Acid-suppressing drugs are used to relieve the symptoms of abdominal pain, vomiting and changes in appetite associated with ulcers. The lining of the gullet (oesophagus), stomach and duodenum are normally protected from the erosive nature of stomach acid by a thin layer of mucus. Where the lining is damaged or when there is excessive amounts of stomach acid produced, damage to the underlying gastric structures can occur leading to the formation of ulcers.
How do they work? There are several different types of acid-suppressing agents on the market, including H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Both types work in different ways, but essentially reduce the amount of acid released into the stomach, which in turn protects the ulcer from the effects of the acid, allowing it to heal.
Any contraindications? Because these drugs can mask symptoms, acid suppressing drugs may sometimes be prescribed only after tests have been completed to rule out more serious stomach conditions.
Possible side-effects? H2 blockers can cause rashes and tiredness in all age groups and confusion in the elderly and proton pump inhibitors may cause diarrhoea or constipation.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative Remedy: Garlic
What is it? Undoubtedly, the most valued of medicinal herbs, garlic belongs to the Allium genus, the plant family which also includes onions, chives and leeks. The bulbous root is the part of the plant used.
How does it work? Garlic has naturally occurring anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties, which are best activated when it is eaten raw. It also contains Vitamin A, B1, B2 and C, along with various antiblood-clotting agents and cholesterol-lowering ingredients. These properties give it the power to prevent and cure viral, bacterial and fungal infections, help digestion, break down cholesterol and reduce blood pressure.
What is it good for? Garlic is renowned for both preventing and curing colds, coughs, sore throats, chest infections, bronchitis, thrush and athlete's foot. It is also valued for its role in maintaining healthy blood circulation, by preventing a build-up of fat in the arteries. Garlic can be used to treat infections of the digestive tract and it inhibits the growth of candida in the gut. It protects against stomach upsets caused by change of diet or climate. It can also help prevent insect bites if taken daily for one week before contact. Recent studies point to the cancer preventing properties of antioxidants called flavonoids in garlic.
Are their any contraindications or drawbacks? As garlic has a blood pressure lowering effect, over-the-counter garlic supplements are not advised for those with low blood pressure. It is also not advised for those on blood-thinning drugs and HIV medication.
Are there any side-effects? The pungent smell left on the breath after eating garlic is the most obvious side effect. Chewing a few leaves of fresh parsley is the best antidote for this. For those who have an aversion to the taste of fresh garlic, it can also be taken in odourless capsule form. Occasionally, large amounts of raw garlic can cause heartburn.
Sylvia Thompson