The success of histamine-2 receptor antagonists.

The lives of both patients and doctors have been revolutionized since the development of histamine-2 receptor antagonists. Their development has introduced, for the first time, a rapid, reliable, and save means of healing both duodenal and gastric ulceration. The continuous administration of these agents has additionally been shown to reduce ulcer relapse and subsequent complications. In addition, they offer some protection from the development of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced damage. The symptomatic relief of reflux together with healing of oesophagitis has been of further benefit. The drugs in this group have become one of the most widely used ethical pharmaceuticals in the world, with ranitidine (Zantac) as the biggest-selling drug in the world for the last few years. Their success can be attributed to their simplicity of use, safety, and above all, their efficacy. Their current role in gastroenterologic practice, in the face of new developments such as Helicobacter eradication and the development of proton pump inhibitors, will be discussed.