[Prevention of stress ulcer hemorrhage with H2-receptor blockade]

The prophylaxis of stress-induced gastrointestinal bleeding has gained particular clinical importance. The H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine as well as vigorous antacid treatment have been shown o be effective in preventing this complication. In six intensive care patients with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding the new H2-receptor antagonist ranitidine in a dose of 0.125 mg/kg b.w./hr i.v. raised intragastric pH within two hours to values between 6.0 and 7.0. From these first data we may conclude that 200 mg i.v ranitidine daily may be at least as efficient as 1200 to 2000 mg i.v. daily cimetidine in inducing almost sustained anacidity. Its prophylactic use in high risk patients seems to be very promising.