[Gastroesophageal reflux disease in pregnancy]

Rev Med Chir Soc Med Nat Iasi. 2001 Jan-Mar;105(1):43-7.
[Article in Romanian]

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms are common in pregnancy, occurring in approximately 45% to 80% of pregnant women. Although the symptoms associated with reflux in pregnancy are similar to those described in the nonpregnant state, some of the etiologies are distinct due to hormonal fluctuations and other physiologic changes often associated with pregnancy. Diagnostic tools and therapeutic regimens that might be used without hesitation in the nonpregnant patient must be given with cautious consideration in the gravid patient due to potential fetal risks. Pregnant patients with symptomatic GERD should be managed aggressively with lifestyle modification and dietary changes. Antacids and antacids/alginic acids combination or sucralfate should be considered first-line medical therapy; treatment with cimetidine or ranitidine should be considered; these H2 receptor antagonists are preferred during pregnancy. Proton-pump inhibitors should be used with caution because little human experience is available.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Ulcer Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cimetidine / administration & dosage
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Omeprazole / administration & dosage
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / therapy*
  • Pyloric Antrum / surgery
  • Vagotomy / methods

Substances

  • Anti-Ulcer Agents
  • Cimetidine
  • Omeprazole