Vonoprazan in Focus: Advancing Gastrointestinal Therapy Beyond Proton Pump Inhibitors
Acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers, affect a significant portion of the global population. These conditions are primarily characterised by the excessive production of gastric acid in the stomach, leading to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and diarrhoea. If left untreated, there can be serious complications such as bleeding or perforation of the stomach lining. The cornerstone of treatment for these disorders has been proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by blocking the enzyme in the stomach lining responsible for acid production, offering relief from symptoms and promoting healing of the mucosal lining. Despite their effectiveness, long-term use of PPIs has been associated with various adverse effects, including kidney disease, nutrient deficiencies, and increased risk of certain infections.
