Pyrogastrone treatment of peptic oesophagitis: analysis of 104 patients treated during a 3 1/2-year period.

A retrospective analysis was carried out in 104 patients with peptic oesophagitis treated with Pyrogastrone (carbenoxolone with alginate-antacid) during a 3 1/2-year period. There wer 3 treatment groups: one had Pyrogastrone alone, another pyrogastrone with metoclopramide and in the third, both agents were given together with cimetidine. Highly significant symptomatic improvement was achieved in 85% of 96 patients treated between 4 and 8 weeks and equally significant endoscopic healing was noted in 76% of 55 patients for the same period. Best results were seen in those given Pyrogastrone alone; the concurrent use of metoclopramide and cimetidine did not enhance healing or symptom relief. 40% of patients received multiple courses, 22% were treated for at least six months and 16% for one year or longer continuously; 3 patients for over 3 years. The only noteworthy side effects were due to the tablet flavour and chewing property. These results confirm clinical trial experience that Pyrogastrone is highly effective in healing peptic esophagitis.