[Omeprazole and cimetidine in the treatment of upper digestive hemorrhage]

Abstract

Aim: To compare the efficacy of omeprazole (40 mgs/12 h i.v.) and cimetidine (1,200 mgs/i.v./day) in the management of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Experimental design: Randomized, prospective open clinical trial. The end points are: mortality, surgical requirements, transfusion requirements, and length of hospitalization in Bleeding Unit and Hospital.

Patients: We study patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding from peptic sources (duodenal ulcer, gastriculcer, acute gastric erosions and peptic esophagitis). 462 patients are evaluated and 282 finally included.

Results: 151 patients were given cimetidine and 131 omeprazole. No significant differences in any of the end points were found.

Conclusions: The use of omeprazole does not improve cimetidine efficacy in the entire group of patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding.