Emerging drugs for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is a common medical problem caused by the exposure of the distal oesophagus to gastric contents. Existing medical therapy is very effective, but symptomatic relief with acid suppressants is often delayed. Treatment focuses on the suppression of gastric acid rather than on the underlying pathophysiological abnormalities, such as transient non-swallow-related lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation. Current pharmacological developments concentrate on drugs with lasting acid suppression and a faster onset of action. Compounds interacting with the complex neuromuscular regulation of the gastro-oesophageal junction are also being developed and offer exciting prospects.
Wurm
Peter
P
Digestive Diseases Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK. peter.wurm@uhl-tr.nhs.uk
De Caestecker
John
J
D000863:Antacids / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004345:Drug Industry / Q000639:trends*; D015507:Drugs, Investigational / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans
D000863:Antacids; D015507:Drugs, Investigational; D005765:Gastrointestinal Agents