According to the Mayo Clinic, peptic ulcers are sores that develop in the gastrointestinal lining as a result of chronic acid irritation. In fact, more than 10 percent of Americans develop peptic ulcers sometime in their lives. Symptoms of peptic ulcers include a burning sensation typically between the bellybutton and breastbone. The Mayo Clinic says this pain is particularly worse at night and is exacerbated on an empty stomach. A handful of proton pump inhibitors can effectively treat these ulcers.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid the stomach produces. Its other uses include treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Drugs.com says omeprazole can also treat erosive esophagitis, a condition in which the lining of the esophagus is damaged. Omeprazole's common side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and a headache. This medication is available over the counter and as a prescription. Take this tablet as your doctor or package insert instructs.
Pantoprazole
Like omeprazole, pantoprazole also reduces stomach acid production. It can also be used to treat GERD and erosive esophagitis. However, it can also treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition in which you develop stomach or intestinal ulcers and pancreatic or intestinal tumors. The National Library of Medicine says pantoprazole's common side effects include a headache, diarrhea, gas (flatulence) and stomach pain. Typically, you will take 40mg of pantoprazole once a day for up to eight weeks or as your doctor instructs.
Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole, like omeprazole and pantoprazole, also works to decrease the amount of acid residing in your stomach. In addition to treating peptic ulcers, it can also treat GERD, erosive esophagitis and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. MedlinePlus indicates lansoprazole's typical side effects include stomach pain and diarrhea. This medication is available as a delayed-release capsule and as a delayed-release solution that is taken by mouth. Typically, you will take one tablet every 12 hours or every eight hours for 10 to 14 days.
