[Current concepts in therapy of reflux disease]

Proton pump inhibitors have replaced H2-blockers as first line agents for the therapy of gastroesophageal reflux disease due to their effective acid suppression and faster healing rate. The endoscopic severity of esophagitis and the clinical response are the most important determinants of dosing and duration of therapy. In patients with severe esophagitis continuous maintenance treatment with proton pump inhibitors is recommended. In recent years antireflux surgery has been established as an important alternative therapy.