Peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the stomach, small intestine and esophagus. Contrary to what is commonly thought, ulcers are most often the result of a bacterial infection or the side effect of a medication, not the result of stress or eating too many spicy foods. The most common symptom of peptic ulcers is abdominal pain. The pain usually strikes during sleep or when the stomach is empty. Other signs include vomiting blood, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite and dark-colored stool.
Antibiotics
Because peptic ulcers are most commonly the result of a bacterial infection, antibiotics are frequently prescribed as treatment. Most patients need to take multiple antibiotics because one typically won't be strong enough to clear up the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin, metronidazole and clarithromycin. A typical course of antibiotics for peptic ulcers is two weeks, but that depends on the how many ulcers a patient has and what type they are.
Acid Blockers
Many patients need to take an acid-blocking medication along with antibiotics to treat their peptic ulcers. These medications, called histamine blockers, limit the amount of hydrochloric acid the stomach produces, which will alleviate discomfort and also allow healing to occur. Common acid blockers prescribed for peptic ulcers include nizatidine, ranitidine, famotidine and cimetidine. They are available both over the counter and as a prescription. Some prescription drugs containing both a combination of two antibiotics and an acid blocker have been designed specifically to treat peptic ulcers.
Home Treatment
While being treated for peptic ulcers, there are steps you can take at home to limit discomfort and promote healing. For example, avoiding foods and beverages that can irritate ulcers, including acidic and spicy foods and alcohol, can help prevent ulcer pain. Smoking can irritate ulcers and is best avoided, too. It's also a good idea not to take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can irritate ulcers. If you need a pain-relieving medication, try acetaminophen instead.
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