MAINTENANCE THERAPY FOR PEPTIC-ULCER DISEASE

Peptic ulcers tend to recur; recurrence may be associated with an increased risk of potentially lethal complications, such as haemorrhage or perforation. Therapy aims to keep ulcers in remission. Currently, the optimal maintenance therapy is long-term, continuous administration of antisecretory drugs. More than 80% of patients remain in remission during maintenance therapy. Maintenance therapy may be required for the life of the patient, but it is acceptable to patients and is safe.