Critical Review of Acid Suppression in Nonvariceal, Acute, Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Nonvariceal, upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a very common source of morbidity and mortality. The concept of ulcer clot dissolution being facilitated by a low gastric pH has allowed us to better understand the pathophysiology of nonvariceal upper GI bleeding. Placebo-controlled trials have shown the benefit of oral proton pump inhibitor administration in contrast to H(2) receptor antagonists. Furthermore, our recent experience with intravenous proton pump inhibitors has reinforced these observations.