Prophylactic Effect of Cimetidine in Gastric Ulcer Patients

Abstract

Patients (19) entered a double-blind randomized trial of the prophylactic effect of cimetidine in gastric ulcer disease. The diagnosis of gastric ulcer was established endoscopically prior to the trial; at the time of entry the patients were symptom-free and their ulcers had healed. The patients received either cimetidine, 400 mg twice daily or inactive tablets. Ten cimetidine-treated patients completed 12 mo. treatment without suffering a recurrence of symptoms; but 5 of 9 placebo-treated patients suffered a symptomatic relapse after 7-18 wk (P < 0.025). In 4 of the 5 patients an ulcer was found at gastroscopy. Apparently, maintenance treatment with cimetidine helps to prevent symptomatic relapses in gastric ulcer patients.