Proton pump inhibitors is a group of drugs whose main action is pronounced and long-lasting reduction of gastric acid production. The group followed another group of pharmaceuticals with similar action called H2 antagonists. Proton pump inhibitors act by by blocking the hydrogen-potassium adenosine triphosphatase enzyme system (the so called proton pump ) of the gastric parietal cell. Hence the enzyme inhibited is the terminal stage in gastric acid production. These drugs are utilized in treatment of :
- duodenal and gastric ulcers
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- and erosive reflux oesophagitis.
Examples (of brand names):
- Prilosec
- Prevacid
- Nexium
- Protonix
- Aciphex