[Treatment of peptic ulcer with histamine H2 receptor antagonists]

Histamine H2-receptor antagonists (Burimamide, Metiamide and Cimetidine as the most recent generation) may drastically inhibit gastric acid secretion stimulated by histamine, pentagastrin, insulin, 2-deoxyglucose or an intragastrically instilled meal, respectively. This inhibitory action may explain the beneficial effects of H2-antagonists in the treatment of active peptic ulceration. On Cimetidine administered at a usual dosage over a 4--6 week period, serious side-effects must not be expected. At present studies aim to establish a Cimetidine dosage which, on long-term treatment, may reduce ulcer recurrency.