Your browser version may not work well with NCBI's Web applications. More information here...
1: Postgrad Med J. 2004 Jul;80(945):399-404.Click here to read Click here to read Links

Management of haematemesis and melaena.

Palmer K.

Department of Gastroenterology, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, UK. kpalmer@golf5063.freeserve.co.uk

Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a common medical emergency which carries hospital mortality in excess of 10%. The most important causes are peptic ulcer and varices. Varices are treated by endoscopic band ligation or injection sclerotherapy and management of the underlying liver disease. Ulcers with major stigmata are treated by injection with dilute adrenaline, thrombin, or fibrin glue; application of heat using the heater probe, multipolar electrocoagulation, or Argon plasma coagulation; or endoclips. Intravenous omeprazole reduces the risk of re-bleeding in ulcer patients undergoing endoscopic therapy. Repeat endoscopic therapy or operative surgery are required if bleeding recurs.

PMID: 15254304 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

PMCID: PMC1743041

Patient Drug Information

  • Esomeprazole (Nexium® )

    Esomeprazole is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the esophagus (food pipe between the mouth and stomach) in ...

  • Omeprazole (Prilosec® , Prilosec® OTC, Zegerid® )

    Prescription omeprazole is used alone or with other medications to treat ulcers (sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine); gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid ...

  • Source: AHFS Consumer Medication Information