What Anti-Inflammatory Medications Should Be Used for Reflux Esophagitis?

Reflux esophagitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, but unlike inflammation caused by bacterial infections, it does not typically require treatment with antibiotics. Instead, the primary treatment involves acid-suppressing medications, particularly proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are widely used in clinical settings. Common PPIs include esomeprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole. These medications help reduce stomach acid production and promote the healing of damaged esophageal mucosa.

Studies show that nearly 90% of patients experience significant symptom relief with PPI therapy, allowing the inflamed or ulcerated tissue in the esophagus to heal effectively. However, for some individuals, standard PPI treatment may not provide adequate relief. In such cases, a newer class of acid-suppressing medication called vonoprazan may be considered. Vonoprazan offers stronger acid suppression than traditional PPIs and has shown promising results in recent studies. However, due to its relatively short history of clinical use, long-term safety and efficacy still require further observation.

In addition to acid-suppressing drugs, doctors may prescribe mucosal protectants and prokinetic agents to aid in treatment. Mucosal protectants help shield the lining of the esophagus from further irritation, while prokinetic medications improve gastrointestinal motility, reducing the frequency of acid reflux episodes. Combining these therapies can significantly enhance symptom management and overall recovery for patients with reflux esophagitis.