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.