Review article: alternative approaches to the long-term management of GERD

Abstract

Although proton-pump inhibitors are highly effective for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, there are issues with long-term maintenance therapy: not all patients require full daily dose for maintenance treatment, some patients are reluctant to take long-term daily medication, and long-term PPI therapy is inadequate for some patients. This article aims to review alternatives to daily proton-pump inhibitor therapy for the long-term management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, including intermittent or on-demand proton-pump inhibitor use, as well as endoscopic and surgical options. On-demand proton-pump inhibitor therapy has demonstrated efficacy in achieving acceptable symptom control, healing and maintenance of quality of life for a proportion of patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Endoscopic antireflux procedures can reduce the need for proton-pump inhibitor therapy, but safety and durability of these procedures require more study. Surgical treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in properly selected patients has demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms and the need for proton-pump inhibitor therapy; however, long-term follow-up suggests that it is not a permanent solution for many patients. While daily proton-pump inhibitor therapy remains the main treatment regimen option for most patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, on-demand therapy may prove effective for many patients. Endoscopic anti-reflux therapies and surgery are options for patients who prefer nonpharmacological treatment, but experience is limited at this point in time for the former.