Interaction of anti-ulcer drugs with the gastric proton pump

In this review consideration is given to anti-ulcer drugs interaction with the gastric H(+)-K+ ATPase. The review has been divided into three sections. First, properties of the gastric proton pump are described in terms of structure, biological activity and ions transport activity, followed by an account of interactions involving antisecretory agents. Emphasis is given to a new class of drugs (substituted benzimidazole) that shows a unique antisecretory action and is safe and effective for short-term treatment of patients with duodenal or gastric ulcers. The final section briefly examines future directions for the production of more selective inhibitors of the gastric proton pump.