title: Proton pump inhibitors in pediatrics: evaluation of efficacy in GERD therapy.
abstract: Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is defined as the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus. It occurs in healthy infants and can be considered physiological process. Uncomplicated GER can present with recurrent vomiting or regurgitation without any other symptoms and is usually managed by educating, reassuring, and guiding the parent without other intervention. GER disease (GERD) refers to the appearance of troublesome symptoms or complications (erosive esophagitis, ulceration, Barrett's esophagus) and may warrant acid suppression. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are the most effective pharmacologic agents available for the treatment of children with GERD. In the pediatric practice only omeprazole, lansoprazole and esomeprazole are available over the first year of life. The empiric use in infants with nonspecific symptoms (excessive crying, regurgitation, feeding refusal, chronic cough) is frequent without randomized controlled study. Our paper will focus on the correct indications, dosages, duration of treatment and safety of PPI use in pediatric population.
authors.affiliation: Pediatric Department, University of Messina, Italy. romanoc@unime.it
authors.forename: Claudio
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Romano
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chiaro
authors.forename: Donatella
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Comito
authors.forename: Italia
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Loddo
authors.forename: Valeria
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Ferrau
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000818:Animals; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005744:Gastric Acid / Q000378:metabolism*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D054328:Proton Pump Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D054328:Proton Pump Inhibitors