Rabeprazole plus domperidone: the answer for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

To study and document the efficacy and tolerability of rabeprazole and domperidone in the treatment of patients suffering from gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), an open, prospective, non-comparative study was carried out among 50 adult patients of either sex attending gastroenterology OPD of a leading, tertiary-care teaching hospital in Mumbai with the clinical diagnosis of GERD. One capsule of rabeprazole and domperidone was swallowed in empty stomach each day for up to 4 weeks by the patients. Rabeprazole and domperidone provided significant and remarkable improvement in symptoms of GERD. Although, the improvement was observed at first follow-up visit (within 2 weeks), continuing treatment for 4 weeks provided additional gains. Almost all patients tolerated the drug well. Most patients (94%) had excellent or good relief as assessed by their physician whilst 86% of patients rated treatment with rabeprazole and domperidone as good or excellent. Rabeprazole and domperidone not only provided desired relief of symptoms of GERD but also is very well tolerated. This combination may also improve the quality of life of patients suffering from GERD.