Peptic Ulcer Disease
2 medicines
Peptic ulcer disease causes open sores in the stomach or small intestine lining, producing burning abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. Acid-suppressing medicines let the lining heal.
Ranitidine Tablets
Ranitidine
150/300mg
Ranitidine Tablets is a digestive health medication containing Ranitidine, available as 150/300mg tablets.
Key facts
- Peptic ulcer disease means open sores form in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine, causing a burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen.
- The two leading causes are infection with Helicobacter pylori and regular use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, both of which weaken the gut's protective defences.
- Treatment centres on acid suppression: proton pump inhibitors such as lansoprazole are the mainstay, with older H2-blockers like ranitidine used in certain situations.
- When H. pylori is the cause, antibiotic combination therapy runs alongside acid suppression to clear the infection and reduce recurrence.
What breaks the lining down
Two causes account for the vast majority of cases worldwide. The first is infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that weakens the stomach's natural defences against acid. The second is regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin, which reduce the prostaglandins that help protect the gut wall. Both mechanisms leave the mucus layer unable to keep pace with acid exposure, so tissue underneath becomes damaged and an open sore forms.
Symptoms to watch for
The classic symptom is a burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, which may ease after eating (more typical of a duodenal ulcer) or worsen between meals (more typical of a gastric ulcer). Bloating, nausea, and a feeling of fullness after small meals are also common.
Relieving acid and letting the ulcer heal
Treatment focuses on reducing acid long enough for the lining to repair itself. Proton pump inhibitors are the mainstay; lansoprazole is one widely used option that sharply cuts acid output over a sustained course. Older H2-blockers like ranitidine lower acid by a different mechanism and may still be used in certain situations. When H. pylori is the underlying cause, antibiotic combination therapy runs alongside acid suppression to clear the infection and reduce the chance of recurrence. Explore the full range of medicines in digestive health.
When to see a doctor
Seek prompt medical attention if you notice black or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or sudden severe abdominal pain: these can signal a bleeding or perforated ulcer that needs urgent care.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.