Obesity and GERD

Phenotype of obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the context of comorbidity in patients with cardiovascular diseases

The relevance of studying such problems as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obesity is caused by their high prevalence in the developed countries of the world. Epidemiological data indicate that obesity is a significant risk factor for developing GERD due to increased intra-abdominal pressure and gastroesophageal gradient, slowing of gastric evacuation and formation of hiatal hernia. Abdominal obesity increases the likelihood of complications of GERD: erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus and adenocarcinoma. This fact is connected with humoral influences: increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and leptin, and decreased secretion of adiponectin. Treatment of comorbid patients requires higher dosages and longer courses of antisecretory medicines, and an additional prescription of ursodeoxycholic acid.

Obesity and cancer risk: Emerging biological mechanisms and perspectives

Continuously rising trends in obesity-related malignancies render this disease spectrum a public health priority. Worldwide, the burden of cancer attributable to obesity, expressed as population attributable fraction, is 11.9% in men and 13.1% in women. There is convincing evidence that excess body weight is associated with an increased risk for cancer of at least 13 anatomic sites, including endometrial, esophageal, renal and pancreatic adenocarcinomas; hepatocellular carcinoma; gastric cardia cancer; meningioma; multiple myeloma; colorectal, postmenopausal breast, ovarian, gallbladder and thyroid cancers. We first synopsize current epidemiologic evidence; the obesity paradox in cancer risk and mortality; the role of weight gain and weight loss in the modulation of cancer risk; reliable somatometric indicators for obesity and cancer research; and gender differences in obesity related cancers. We critically summarize emerging biological mechanisms linking obesity to cancer encompassing insulin resistance and abnormalities of the IGF-I system and signaling; sex hormones biosynthesis and pathway; subclinical chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress; alterations in adipokine pathophysiology; factors deriving from ectopic fat deposition; microenvironment and cellular perturbations including vascular perturbations, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, endoplasmic reticulum stress and migrating adipose progenitor cells; disruption of circadian rhythms; dietary nutrients; factors with potential significance such as the altered intestinal microbiome; and mechanic factors in obesity and cancer. Future perspectives regarding prevention, diagnosis and therapeutics are discussed. The aim of this review is to investigate how the interplay of these main potential mechanisms and risk factors, exerts their effects on target tissues provoking them to acquire a cancerous phenotype.

Chronic cough and obesity

With respective prevalence of 13% and 9.6%, obesity and chronic cough are two common conditions worldwide. The crucial role of obesity has been highlighted in the development and progression of many respiratory diseases. According to the results of epidemiological studies, obesity, particularly abdominal obesity, may also be associated with chronic cough (CC). CC seems to be more severe in obese patients compared to normal-weight subjects. The management of CC may differ slightly in obese patients compared to non-obese patients. Indeed, asthma and reflux diseases, which are considered key factors in the onset of CC, are characterised by more severe symptoms in obese patients. Asthma is associated with a resistance to usual treatments in obese patients but no data are available on the effect of inhaled therapies in obese subjects with cough variant asthma. Other emergent causes of CC have been reported in obese patients. Obstructive sleep apnoea and diabetes may also be involved in the development of CC and should be taken into account in obese patients with CC. The beneficial effect of weight loss on chronic cough has been suggested.

Prevalence and factors associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease in southern India: A community-based study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common worldwide with significant expenditure for health care. Community-based data on the prevalence of GERD in India remains scarce. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of GERD and to identify potential associations.

METHODS

A community-based survey of adults (aged ≥18 years) was done through population proportionate to size sampling in urban and rural areas of Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, India. GERD was defined as heartburn and regurgitation occurring at least twice per week. Associations between GERD and gender, age, anthropometric measures, and consumption of tobacco, alcohol, meat, and milk were evaluated. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were derived from logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Of 6174 participants (3157 urban, 2599 male), 8.2% had GERD. The prevalence was higher in urban (11.1%) compared to rural areas (5.1%) (p < 0.001). Among patients with GERD, 34.3% used medications daily for symptom relief. On univariate analysis, GERD was associated with female gender, living in an urban area, age >30, BMI >25, and infrequent milk consumption. On multivariate analysis, female gender (OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.1-1.6), living in urban area (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.9-2.8), age >30 years (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.4-2.5), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² (OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.1-1.6), and infrequent milk intake (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.3-1.9) were independently associated with GERD.

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic GERD was found in 8.2% of respondents in this representative southern Indian community, being more prevalent in urban residents, women, older, and obese individuals.

Reuniting overnutrition and undernutrition, macronutrients, and micronutrients

Over-nutrition and its late consequences are a dominant theme in medicine today. In addition to the health hazards brought on by over-nutrition, the medical community has recently accumulated a roster of health benefits with obesity, grouped under "obesity paradox." Throughout the world and throughout history until the 20^th century, under-nutrition was a dominant evolutionary force. Under-nutrition brings with it a mix of benefits and detriments that are opposite to and continuous with those of over-nutrition. This continuum yields J-shaped or U-shaped curves relating body mass index to mortality. The overweight have an elevated risk of dying in middle age of degenerative diseases while the underweight are at increased risk of premature death from infectious conditions. Micronutrient deficiencies, major concerns of nutritional science in the 20^th century, are being neglected. This "hidden hunger" is now surprisingly prevalent in all weight groups, even among the overweight. Because micronutrient replacement is safe, inexpensive, and predictably effective, it is now an exceptionally attractive target for therapy across the spectrum of weight and age. Nutrition-related conditions worthy of special attention from caregivers include excess vitamin A, excess vitamin D, and deficiency of magnesium.

Laparoscopic placement of the LINX® system in management of severe reflux after sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Management of severe reflux after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is often done by conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The LINX^® system could be an alternative treatment.

METHOD

Between 2015 and 2017, 13 patients had LINX^® system placed to manage their reflux after SG. Pre-operative evaluation included a barium swallow, endoscopy with pH monitor and esophageal motility.

RESULTS

Ten females and three males with mean age of 49 ± 13 years were evaluated. Their mean weight before placing the LINX^® system was 193 ± 45 lbs. and mean BMI of 33 ± 6 kg/m². The mean time between SG and placing the LINX^® system was 43 ± 19 months. The mean Bravo score was 46 ± 26 (normal 14.7). One patient developed severe dysphagia post-operatively requiring removal of the LINX^® after 18 days and one patient was lost to follow up. The mean follow-up in the remaining 11 patients was 26 ± 12 months. The mean GERD-HRQL score dropped significantly from 47/75 ± 17/75 to 12/75 ± 14/75 (p = .0003).

CONCLUSION

The LINX^® system may be used as an alternative to RYGB conversion in managing refractory post-SG reflux.

Recent Topics and Perspectives on Esophageal Cancer in Japan

Despite recent advances in multidisciplinary treatment strategy, outcomes of esophageal cancer treatment still remain unsatisfactory. There are two histologic subtypes of esophageal cancer, namely, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, and these subtypes turned out to be genetically separate diseases. I focused on nine topics among the cancer's epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment, and reviewed the literature. Although the number of patients with esophageal cancer has been continuously increasing, the cause of esophageal cancer is evident in a substantial proportion of patients, and public education may be able to decrease its incidence. Early detection and less invasive treatment will improve the outcome of patients. Minimally invasive esophagectomy decreased surgical invasiveness and improved short-term outcomes in the clinical trials. Centralization of patients to high-volume centers and introduction of multidisciplinary perioperative care bundle may further improve the outcome of patients undergoing esophagectomy. Although no targeting agent has shown efficacy in patients with esophageal cancer, immune checkpoint blockades are promising, and the results of phase III trials are awaited.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Obese Patients

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obesity coexist in many patients in the Western population. The association is not coincidental, since GERD pathophysiology is, in part, linked to obesity. Visceral adipose tissue secretes hormones, which increase the risk of GERD. Obesity increases esophageal motor disorders and higher number of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations. Central obesity increases abdominal-thoracic pressure gradient and disrupts the gastroesophageal junction by inducing hiatal hernia formation. Obese patients benefit from weight loss by diet to decrease GERD symptoms; however, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is associated with a higher weight loss and a decrease in GERD symptoms, and is considered the best way to treat both diseases at the same time.

Wake-up Call to Clinicians: The Impact of Sleep Dysfunction on Gastrointestinal Health and Disease

Sleep dysfunction is an epidemic affecting a large portion of the adult population. Recent studies have linked sleep dysfunction with an upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines (eg, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1 and interleukin-6), the implications of which can have a profound impact on a variety of gastrointestinal disease. In particular, sleep dysfunction seems to accelerate disease states characterized by inflammation (eg, gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia, chronic liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal cancer). This article evaluates the complex interplay between sleep dysfunction and gastrointestinal health and disease.

The Epidemiology of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

The incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) has increased in many Western countries and is higher in men than women. Some risk factors for EAC have been identified-mainly gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett's esophagus, obesity, and tobacco smoking. It is not clear whether interventions to address these factors can reduce risk of EAC, although some evidence exists for smoking cessation. Although consumption of alcohol is not associated with EAC risk, other exposures, such as physical activity, nutrition, and medication use, require further study. Genetic variants have been associated with risk for EAC, but their overall contribution is low. Studies are needed to investigate associations between risk factors and the molecular subtypes of EAC. The prognosis for patients with EAC has slightly improved, but remains poor-screening and surveillance trials of high-risk individuals are needed.

Dietary habits and obesity indices in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease: a comparative cross-sectional study

Background

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is suggested to be associated with some socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. Although the roles of some factors such as obesity are well documented, evidence on the impact of other factors such as dietary habits are still inconclusive. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between socio-demographic and lifestyle factors with GERD in participants referred to a teaching hospital in Zahedan, South-East of Iran.

Methods

This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted during 2014–2015. All patients completed a structured questionnaire regarding information on socio-demographic status, lifestyle factors and dietary habits. Anthropometric indices including body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were used to determine general and central obesity, respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22. Value of p < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results

Five hundred and five participants, including 285 GERD and 220 Non-GERD participants participated in the study. In univariate analysis, being married (OR = 1.57, 95%CI = 1.04, 2.36), general obesity (OR = 1.77, 95%CI = 1.11, 2.81), central obesity (OR = 2.09, 95%CI = 1.46,3.01) and consumption of citrus fruits between meals (OR = 1.69, 95%CI = 1.04, 2.73) were associated with higher odds of GERD, while higher educational level (OR = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.36,0.77) and regular physical activity ≥2 h/week (OR = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.30, 0.94) were associated with lower odds of GERD. In the adjusted model, central obesity (OR = 1.88, 95%CI = 1.18, 3.01) and consumption of citrus fruits between meals (OR = 2.22, 95%CI = 1.30, 3.81) were positively associated with odds of GERD, while higher educational level (OR = 0.55, 95%CI = 0.33, 0.91) was associated with decreased odds of GERD.

Conclusion

According to the results of the current study, central obesity as determined by WC and citrus fruit intake were independent factors associated with GERD. Therefore, lifestyle modification might have a positive effect in the treatment of GERD in an urban population of Iran.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12876-017-0699-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The epidemiology of sleep and obesity

Sleep is a state of consciousness that is preserved across animal species whose exact function is not yet clear but which has a vital impact on health and well-being. Epidemiological evidence suggests sleep duration in both children and adults has been decreasing over the past half-century, while at the same time rates of overweight and obesity have been increasing. Short sleep duration along with other dimensions of poor sleep has been associated with obesity both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. These data suggest a potential causal relationship between poor sleep and greater rates of weight gain that may be related to effects of sleep on dietary intake or physical activity. However, there is also potential for reverse causation as obesity leads to many co-morbidities including sleep apnea that can disrupt sleep. Medium and long term interventional studies are needed to evaluate the potential for healthy sleep interventions to help combat the epidemic of obesity.

A review of pharmacotherapy for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

INTRODUCTION

Medical therapy of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is based on the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as first choice treatment. Despite their effectiveness, about 20-30% of patients report an inadequate response and alternative drugs are required. Areas covered: This review provides an overview of current pharmacotherapy for treating GERD by showing the results of PPIs, reflux inhibitors, antidepressants and mucosa protective medications. Expert opinion: Medical therapy of GERD does not definitely cure the disease, because even PPIs are not able to change the key factors responsible for it. However, they remain the mainstay of medical treatment, allowing us to alleviate symptoms, heal esophagitis and prevent complications in the majority of cases. Nevertheless, many patients do not respond, because acid does not play any pathogenetic role. Prokinetics and reflux inhibitors have the potential to control motor abnormalities, but the results of clinical trials are inconsistent. Antidepressant drugs are effective in specific subgroups of NERD patients with visceral hypersensitivity, but larger, controlled clinical studies are necessary. Protective drugs or medical devices have been recently adopted to reinforce mucosal resistance and preliminary trials have confirmed their efficacy either combined with or as add-on medication to PPIs in refractory patients.

Should bariatric surgery be performed in adolescents?

Adolescent obesity has markedly increased worldwide in both its extent and prevalence in recent decades and obesity prevention strategies are failing. As a result, effective treatment strategies are urgently needed. As behavioral and pharmacological treatment approaches have only moderate effects in severe obesity, bariatric surgery has begun to emerge as a treatment option. In this debate article, we offer arguments opposing and supporting bariatric surgery in the treatment of severe obesity in adolescents. Bariatric surgery has superior therapeutic outcomes with respect to weight loss and resolution of comorbid diseases over other existing treatments. However, long-term outcomes after bariatric surgery in adolescents are only just beginning to emerge. Furthermore, the procedures are generally considered irreversible, apart from gastric banding. Most importantly, not all adolescents seem to benefit greatly from bariatric surgery and we are not yet able to reliably identify those who stand to gain the greatest benefit. The authors agree that adolescent bariatric surgery should be offered exclusively within formal adolescent obesity programs, delivered by specialist multidisciplinary child/adolescent obesity teams, and within specialist centers, in order to optimize outcomes and minimize potential detrimental effects. Patients and their family/carers must be educated regarding the benefits and risks, potential side effects, expected changes in eating behavior and the lifelong requirement for regular medical follow-up after surgery. Before embarking upon a surgical treatment pathway in adolescents with severe obesity, it may also be beneficial to ensure compliance to treatment is demonstrated, in order to minimize the risk of nutritional deficiencies and associated potential complications.

Operative Treatments for Reflux After Bariatric Surgery: Current and Emerging Management Options

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disorder that has a well-established connection with obesity. To ameliorate the morbidity associated with obesity, bariatric procedures have become an established pathway to accomplish sustained weight loss. In some procedures, such as with the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, weight loss is also accompanied by the resolution of GERD symptoms. However, other popular bariatric surgeries, such as the sleeve gastrectomy, have a controversial impact on their effect on reflux. Consequently, increased attention has been given to the development of strategies for the management of de novo or recurrent reflux after bariatric surgery. This article aims to discuss medical and surgical strategies for reflux after bariatric surgery, and their outcomes.

Effective and safe proton pump inhibitor therapy in acid-related diseases - A position paper addressing benefits and potential harms of acid suppression

BACKGROUND

The introduction of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) into clinical practice has revolutionized the management of acid-related diseases. Studies in primary care and emergency settings suggest that PPIs are frequently prescribed for inappropriate indications or for indications where their use offers little benefit. Inappropriate PPI use is a matter of great concern, especially in the elderly, who are often affected by multiple comorbidities and are taking multiple medications, and are thus at an increased risk of long-term PPI-related adverse outcomes as well as drug-to-drug interactions. Herein, we aim to review the current literature on PPI use and develop a position paper addressing the benefits and potential harms of acid suppression with the purpose of providing evidence-based guidelines on the appropriate use of these medications.

METHODS

The topics, identified by a Scientific Committee, were assigned to experts selected by three Italian Scientific Societies, who independently performed a systematic search of the relevant literature using Medline/PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane databases. Search outputs were distilled, paying more attention to systematic reviews and meta-analyses (where available) representing the best evidence. The draft prepared on each topic was circulated amongst all the members of the Scientific Committee. Each expert then provided her/his input to the writing, suggesting changes and the inclusion of new material and/or additional relevant references. The global recommendations were then thoroughly discussed in a specific meeting, refined with regard to both content and wording, and approved to obtain a summary of current evidence.

RESULTS

Twenty-five years after their introduction into clinical practice, PPIs remain the mainstay of the treatment of acid-related diseases, where their use in gastroesophageal reflux disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, Helicobacter pylori infection, peptic ulcer disease and bleeding as well as, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is appropriate. Prevention of gastroduodenal mucosal lesions (and symptoms) in patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antiplatelet therapies and carrying gastrointestinal risk factors also represents an appropriate indication. On the contrary, steroid use does not need any gastroprotection, unless combined with NSAID therapy. In dyspeptic patients with persisting symptoms, despite successful H. pylori eradication, short-term PPI treatment could be attempted. Finally, addition of PPIs to pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy in patients with refractory steatorrhea may be worthwhile.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, PPIs are irreplaceable drugs in the management of acid-related diseases. However, PPI treatment, as any kind of drug therapy, is not without risk of adverse effects. The overall benefits of therapy and improvement in quality of life significantly outweigh potential harms in most patients, but those without clear clinical indication are only exposed to the risks of PPI prescription. Adhering with evidence-based guidelines represents the only rational approach to effective and safe PPI therapy. Please see related Commentary: doi: 10.1186/s12916-016-0724-1 .

Dexlansoprazole: delayed-release orally disintegrating tablets for the treatment of heartburn associated with non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease and the maintenance of erosive esophagitis

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition afflicting millions of patients, whose prevalence continues to rise owing to the aging population and increasing burden of comorbid conditions, such as obesity. Currently, the mainstay of therapy for GERD is treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which have proven efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Despite this, a considerable number of patients have refractory symptoms to PPI therapy. Dexlansoprazole is a new addition to the class of PPIs, which has a unique dual delayed drug release system, which aims to address the current limitations of acid suppressive therapy by offering extended acid suppression and improved ease of administration. Areas covered: This manuscript covers the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical efficacy, and regulatory approval of dexlansoprazole. Additionally, there is further discussion concerning the current market settings and the potential future impact of dexlansoprazole. Expert commentary: Overall, dexlansoprazole offers benefits in its ease of administration and proven efficacy in the healing, maintenance of erosive esophagitis, and symptomatic non-erosive GERD. Long-term, dexlansoprazole will likely find a niche market among patients who fail other acid suppressive therapy or who desire simplified administration for compliance concerns, but will likely come at a higher out of pocket expense than comparable generic PPIs.

Contribution of immunomodulators to gastroesophageal reflux disease and its complications: stromal cells, interleukin 4, and adiponectin

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has become the most commonly seen gastrointestinal disorder in outpatient clinics. In the United States, around 20% of the general population experience heartburn on a weekly basis. Although clinical complaints can be mild or moderate, patients with GERD may develop further complications, such as peptic strictures, Barrett's esophagus (BE), and even esophageal adenocarcinoma. Pathologically, GERD is developed as a result of chronic and enhanced exposure of the esophageal epithelium to noxious gastric refluxate. In this review article, we provide an overview of GERD and then focus on the roles of stromal cells, interleukin 4, and adiponectin in GERD and BE. The importance of inflammation and immunomodulators in GERD pathogenesis is highlighted. Targeting the immunomodulators or inflammation in general may improve the therapeutic outcome of GERD, in particular, in those refractory to proton pump inhibitors.

[Specific features of gastroesophageal reflux disease associated with obesity and overweight]

AIM

To reveal the specific features of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) associated with obesity and overweight, by investigating the clinical and endoscopic manifestations of the disease, 24-hour pH-metry scores, and leptin levels.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 131 patients with GERD were examined. The data about complaints and those from life and medical histories were collected; anthropometric measurements and the results of blood biochemical tests, esophagoduodenoscopy (EPDS), and pH-metry were assessed; and the serum levels of leptin and its receptor were estimated. The patients were allocated into a study group (104 obese and/or overweight patients) and a comparison one (27 normal weight people).

RESULTS

Waist circumference, hip circumference, and blood glucose levels proved to be statistically significantly higher in the study group (p<0.00000, p<0.00002, and p<0.02, respectively). The obese patients were found to have a statistically significantly higher level of leptin and a lower level of its soluble receptors: the median leptin levels were 30.42 (13.42-45.62) ng/ml in the study group and 5.47 (3.35-7.68) ng/ml in the comparison group; the median levels of the receptors were 18.83 (14.98-25.11) ng/ml and 30.93 (24.68-33.53) ng/ml, respectively). This group showed a moderate negative correlation between these indicators (rs=-0.451; p<0.0004). The study group displayed higher pH values in the gastric cardia and body (p<0.05 and p<0.04, respectively). The mucosal contact time with the refluxate having with a low pH value (<4) in the above segments turned out to be longer in the comparison group (p<0.05). There were weight-independent relationships of the leptin level to its spread, aggressiveness quotient, to the highest pH value in the gastric cardia and body, and to the mucosal contact time with the refluxate having a pH below 4.0 (rs=0.543; p<0.006; rs=0.432; p<0.04; rs=0.431; p<0.04; rs=-0.450; p<0.03, respectively), leptin receptors with a pH ratio in the gastric cardia and body, to the number of reflux episodes longer than 5 minutes in the esophagus, and to the De Meester index for this indicator (rs=0.471; p<0.04; rs=-0.455; p<0.04; rs=-0,454; p<0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Obese and overweight patients develop GERD in the presence of leptin resistance and biliary tract disease, which determines the specific features of the disease (alkaline or mixed refluxate) and the need for individualized therapy.

Perfil de usuários com prescrição de omeprazol em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde do Sul do Brasil: considerações sobre seu uso racional

Introdução: Os inibidores da bomba de prótons (IBPs) são uma das classes terapêuticas mais prescritas no mundo, sendo omeprazol o representante nas listas de medicamentos essenciais. Estudos indicam que o uso a curto prazo dos IBPs pode ser seguro, apesar de estar relacionado efeitos adversos a longo prazo. Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil dos usuários com prescrição de omeprazol em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde (UBS), relacionando com tempo de uso, dose e indicação. Métodos: Estudo transversal no qual foram avaliados os prontuários de usuários com prescrições de omeprazol atendidas no mês de maio de 2014 pela farmácia de uma UBS. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 349 pacientes, sendo 75,4% do sexo feminino. A média de medicamentos prescritos por pacientes foi de 4,5 e a idade média de 64,6 anos. A dose de 20mg foi encontrada em 69,8% dos usuários, 84,3% tem prescrição mais de seis meses, e a doença do refluxo e a úlcera gástrica foram as indicações mais citadas; 29,5% dos pacientes não tinham registro de motivo de uso do omeprazol. Conclusão: O maior tempo de uso do omeprazol está associado com maior idade e número de medicamentos prescritos, podendo estes fatores estarem relacionados com o uso irracional de omeprazol, por vezes sem justificativa em prontuário e com tempo prolongado de uso.

The management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

If there are no features of serious disease, suspected gastro-oesophageal reflux disease can be initially managed with a trial of a proton pump inhibitor for 4-8 weeks. This should be taken 30-60 minutes before food for optimal effect. Once symptoms are controlled, attempt to withdraw acid suppression therapy. If symptoms recur, use the minimum dose that controls symptoms. Patients who have severe erosive oesophagitis, scleroderma oesophagus or Barrett's oesophagus require long-term treatment with a proton pump inhibitor. Lifestyle modification strategies can help gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Weight loss has the strongest evidence for efficacy. Further investigation and a specialist referral are required if there is no response to proton pump inhibitor therapy. Atypical symptoms or signs of serious disease also need investigation.

Leptin and maintenance of gastrointestinal function

Leptin is a protein hormone encoded by the obese (Ob) gene, exerting an important biological role in the life. Initially, leptin is believed to play a major role in regulating appetite control and energy metabolism, including adjusting the energy metabolism. However, recent data suggest that leptin also plays an important part in regulating the function of the gastrointestinal tract, immune and inflammation response, injury repair, and tumor angiogenesis. This article reviews the protective effects of leptin on the function of the gastrointestinal tract.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease in the obese: Pathophysiology and treatment

Obesity is a condition that has increased all over the world in the last 3 decades. Overweight and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are related. GERD may have different causative factors in the obese compared with lean individuals. This review focuses on the proper treatment for GERD in the obese based on its pathophysiology. Increased abdominal pressure may play a more significant role in obese subjects with GERD than the defective esophagogastric barrier usually found in nonobese individuals. A fundoplication may be used to treat GERD in these individuals; however, outcomes may be not as good as in nonobese patients and it does not act on the pathophysiology of the disease. All bariatric techniques may ameliorate GERD symptoms owing to a decrease in abdominal pressure secondary to weight loss. However, some operations may lead to a disruption of natural anatomic antireflux mechanisms or even lead to slow gastric emptying and/or esophageal clearance and thus be a refluxogenic procedure. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass decreases both acid and bile reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. On the other hand, gastric banding is a refluxogenic operation, and sleeve gastrectomy may show different outcomes based on the anatomy of the gastric tube.

[Inadequate response to proton pump inhibitor therapy: causes and patient management tactics]

The past decade has been marked by a considerable increase in the number of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and gastroduodenal ulcer who show an inadequate response to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. At the present time, most of the causes diminishing the response have been elucidated. Unfortunately, they cannot always be eliminated by drug therapy; nonetheless, rabeprazole has a number of advantages over other PPIs. The major causes of an inadequate response to PPI therapy are low treatment motivation; nocturnal gastric acid breakthroughs; genetically determined CYP polymorphism; chiefly nighttime symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease; non-acid refluxes; hypersensitive esophagus; overweight and obesity.