From the Research
Interferon gamma is not typically indicated for the treatment of gastric ulcers, and instead, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, pantoprazole, or esomeprazole should be used for 4-8 weeks, along with antibiotics if Helicobacter pylori infection is present. The standard treatment for gastric ulcers includes PPIs, which have been shown to increase healing rates and improve clinical symptoms 1. For H. pylori eradication, a triple therapy consisting of a PPI plus two antibiotics (usually amoxicillin and clarithromycin) for 10-14 days is recommended. Interferon gamma is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that might worsen gastric inflammation rather than help heal ulcers, and is primarily used in treating certain immunodeficiency disorders and specific infections.
Some key points to consider in the treatment of gastric ulcers include:
- Avoiding NSAIDs, alcohol, smoking, and spicy foods that can exacerbate symptoms
- Completing the full course of prescribed medications even if symptoms improve before completion
- Using PPIs, such as omeprazole (20-40mg daily), pantoprazole (40mg daily), or esomeprazole (20-40mg daily), for 4-8 weeks
- Adding antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin, for 10-14 days if H. pylori infection is present
The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2017, found that PPIs are effective and safe in preventing peptic ulcers and complications in patients requiring NSAID therapy, with no major difference in comparative effectiveness and safety between different PPIs 2. Therefore, PPIs should be the first choice for the treatment of gastric ulcers, rather than interferon gamma.