Effect and cost-effectiveness of step-up versus step-down treatment with antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors in patients with new onset dyspepsia (DIAMOND study): a primary-care-based randomised controlled trial

Determinants of and interventions for Proton Pump Inhibitor prescription behavior: A systematic scoping review

BACKGROUND

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) are frequently prescribed. Long-term use is associated with side-effects and patients often lack a valid indication. Inappropriate PPI prescribing thus needs to be addressed. This review aims to scope 1) what determinants are studied as reasons for PPI prescribing, 2) what strategies are used for changing PPI (de)prescribing, and 3) whether important determinants are addressed in these interventions.

METHODS

We searched eight databases for papers on determinants of physician PPI prescribing. Studies were included if they were conducted in a Western country and focused on oral PPIs for an adult population. By following the Behaviour Change Wheel, we extracted information regarding PPI prescribing behavior, behavioral determinants and intervention strategies.

FINDINGS

We included 74 papers. Most focused on the determinants knowledge and beliefs about consequences. The latter was consistently related to PPI prescribing. Results for knowledge were mixed. Most interventions used education or enablement (e.g., algorithms, quality check improvements, involvement of pharmacists) as strategies. Enablement consistently improved PPI prescribing, while results for education were mixed.

INTERPRETATION

There is an overemphasis on reflective processes in studies on PPI prescribing. Future research should comprehensively identify behavioral determinants, focusing on reflective and impulsive processes, such that interventions can address the most important determinants.

Antacids revisited: review on contemporary facts and relevance for self-management

Heartburn and acid regurgitation are the typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Despite the availability of several treatment options, antacids remain the mainstay treatment for gastroesophageal reflux-related symptoms based on their efficacy, safety, and over-the-counter availability. Antacids are generally recommended for adults and children at least 12 years old, and the FDA recommends antacids as the first-line treatment for heartburn in pregnancy. This narrative review summarizes the mechanism, features, and limitations related to different antacid ingredients and techniques available to study the acid neutralization and buffering capacity of antacid formulations. Using supporting clinical evidence for different antacid ingredients, it also discusses the importance of antacids as OTC medicines and first-line therapies for heartburn, particularly in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, in which reliance on self-care has increased. The review will also assist pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in helping individuals with heartburn to make informed self-care decisions and educating them to ensure that antacids are used in an optimal, safe, and effective manner.

Cost-effectiveness of the Adaptive Implementation of Effective Programs Trial (ADEPT): approaches to adopting implementation strategies

BACKGROUND

Theory-based methods to support the uptake of evidence-based practices (EBPs) are critical to improving mental health outcomes. Implementation strategy costs can be substantial, and few have been rigorously evaluated. The purpose of this study is to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis to identify the most cost-effective approach to deploying implementation strategies to enhance the uptake of Life Goals, a mental health EBP.

METHODS

We used data from a previously conducted randomized trial to compare the cost-effectiveness of Replicating Effective Programs (REP) combined with external and/or internal facilitation among sites non-responsive to REP. REP is a low-level strategy that includes EBP packaging, training, and technical assistance. External facilitation (EF) involves external expert support, and internal facilitation (IF) augments EF with protected time for internal staff to support EBP implementation. We developed a decision tree to assess 1-year costs and outcomes for four implementation strategies: (1) REP only, (2) REP+EF, (3) REP+EF add IF if needed, (4) REP+EF/IF. The analysis used a 1-year time horizon and assumed a health payer perspective. Our outcome was quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The economic outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). We conducted deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA).

RESULTS

Our results indicate that REP+EF add IF is the most cost-effective option with an ICER of $593/QALY. The REP+EF/IF and REP+EF only conditions are dominated (i.e., more expensive and less effective than comparators). One-way sensitivity analyses indicate that results are sensitive to utilities for REP+EF and REP+EF add IF. The PSA results indicate that REP+EF, add IF is the optimal strategy in 30% of iterations at the threshold of $100,000/QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the most cost-effective implementation support begins with a less intensive, less costly strategy initially and increases as needed to enhance EBP uptake. Using this approach, implementation support resources can be judiciously allocated to those clinics that would most benefit. Our results were not robust to changes in the utility measure. Research is needed that incorporates robust and relevant utilities in implementation studies to determine the most cost-effective strategies. This study advances economic evaluation of implementation by assessing costs and utilities across multiple implementation strategy combinations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02151331 , 05/30/2014.

Reported proton pump inhibitor side effects: what are physician and patient perspectives and behaviour patterns?

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are among the most commonly prescribed medications and studies are reporting potentially harmful PPI-related adverse events. While these studies' findings are controversial, their impact on patients and physicians remains unknown.

AIM

To determine patient and physician awareness of PPI-related adverse events, source of information, and subsequent effect on patient behaviour and physician practice.

METHODS

A 20-item questionnaire was administered to English speaking adult patients and physicians in primary care and specialty clinics about topics including knowledge of PPI-related adverse events, change in behaviour of patients on PPIs and physician management of patients on PPIs.

RESULTS

Of 277 patients surveyed, 45% reported knowledge of side effects related to PPIs. Patients were more likely to hear about PPI side effects from non-physician sources (66%) than physicians (38%). Of patients who had heard about PPI side effects, bone fractures and osteoporosis were the most common concerns, 42% and 44% respectively. Of PPI users, 38% changed their behaviour based upon concerns about PPI-related adverse events. Change in patient behaviour due to concern about PPI side effects was associated with age ≥ 65 years (odds ratio [OR] 4.07 [1.19-13.94]; P = 0.03) and concern about long-term side effects (OR 2.31 [1.03-5.17]; P = 0.04). Of 83 physicians surveyed, 60% reported concern about PPI-related adverse events, with bone fractures (46%) and osteoporosis (49%) being the most frequently reported. Overall, 37% of physicians reported changing their practice based upon their concerns.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly half of patients reported knowledge of PPI-related adverse events, most often from non-physician sources, and general concern regarding their impact. PPI users are changing their behaviour based upon these concerns, without physician input, and care providers are changing behaviour based on relatively weak evidence.

Lanreotide Reduces Liver Growth In Patients With Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Liver and Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Polycystic liver disease is the most common extrarenal manifestation of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). There is need for robust long-term evidence for the volume-reducing effect of somatostatin analogues. We made use of data from an open-label, randomized trial to determine the effects of lanreotide on height-adjusted liver volume (hTLV) and combined height-adjusted liver and kidney volume (hTLKV) in patients with ADPKD.

METHODS

We performed a 120-week study comparing the reno-protective effects of lanreotide vs standard care in 305 patients with ADPKD (the DIPAK-1 study). For this analysis, we studied the 175 patients with polycystic liver disease with hepatic cysts identified by magnetic resonance imaging and liver volume ≥2000 mL. Of these, 93 patients were assigned to a group that received lanreotide (120 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks) and 82 to a group that received standard care (blood pressure control, a sodium-restricted diet, and antihypertensive agents). The primary endpoint was percent change in hTLV between baseline and end of treatment (week 120). A secondary endpoint was change in hTLKV.

RESULTS

At 120 weeks, hTLV decreased by 1.99% in the lanreotide group (95% confidence interval [CI], -4.21 to 0.24) and increased by 3.92% in the control group (95% CI, 1.56-6.28). Compared with the control group, lanreotide reduced the growth of hTLV by 5.91% (95% CI, -9.18 to -2.63; P < .001). Growth of hTLV was still reduced by 3.87% at 4 months after the last injection of lanreotide compared with baseline (95% CI, -7.55 to -0.18; P = .04). Lanreotide reduced growth of hTLKV by 7.18% compared with the control group (95% CI, -10.25 to -4.12; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this subanalysis of a randomized trial of patients with polycystic liver disease due to ADPKD, lanreotide for 120 weeks reduced the growth of liver and combined liver and kidney volume. This effect was still present 4 months after the last injection of lanreotide. ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT01616927.

The Association of Combined Total Kidney and Liver Volume with Pain and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Patients with Later Stage Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

There is an ongoing debate if and how kidney and liver volume are associated with pain and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients. Since both kidney and liver volume could interact, we investigated whether combined total kidney and liver volume had stronger associations with ADPKD-related pain and GI symptoms than the volumes of the organs separately.

METHODS

We used baseline data from the DIPAK-1 study, which included ADPKD patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. MR imaging was performed to measure height-adjusted total kidney volume (hTKV), height-adjusted total liver volume (hTLV) and the combination of both (height-adjusted total kidney liver volume [hTKLV]).

RESULTS

Three hundred nine ADPKD patients were included with a mean age of 48 ± 7 years, 53% female, eGFR 50 ± 11 mL/min/1.73 m2 and median hTKV, hTLV and hTKLV of 1,095 (758-1,669), 1,173 (994-1,523) and 2,496 (1,972-3,352) mL/m, respectively. ADPKD-related pain and GI symptoms were present in, respectively, 27.5 and 61.2% of patients. Gender was no effect modifier in the association between kidney and/or liver volume, and symptom burden, indicating that all models could be tested in the overall study population. hTKLV and hTLV were significantly associated with pain and GI symptoms, whereas hTKV was not. Model testing revealed that the associations of pain and GI symptoms with hTKLV were significantly stronger than with hTKV (p = 0.04 and p = 0.04, respectively) but not when compared to hTLV (p = 0.2 and p = 0.5, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that combined kidney and liver volume was associated with the presence and severity of pain and GI symptoms in ADPKD, with a more prominent role for hTLV than for hTKV.

Effect of Intravenous Fluids and Analgesia on Dysmotility in Patients With Acute Pancreatitis: A Prospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

Analgesia and intravenous fluid resuscitation are cornerstones of initial patient management in acute pancreatitis (AP). The aim was to investigate the effect of intravenous fluids and analgesia on gastrointestinal motility in the early course of AP.

METHODS

Gastrointestinal dysmotility was assessed using the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI). One-way analysis of variance and analysis of covariance were conducted, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, severity of AP, preexisting diabetes mellitus, and time from first symptom onset to hospital admission.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients with AP were prospectively enrolled. Opioid analgesia, when compared with nonopioid analgesia, was significantly associated with increase in total GCSI score in both unadjusted and adjusted analyses. There was no significant difference between aggressive and nonaggressive fluid resuscitation in both unadjusted and adjusted analyses. A combination of opioids and any intravenous fluids was associated with a significantly increased total GCSI score compared with opioids and no intravenous fluids in both unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Duration of symptoms was the confounder that significantly affected 6 of 9 studied associations.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous fluids and analgesia significantly affect motility independent of severity and other covariates. Guidelines on prudent use of opioids and fluids in AP need to be developed, particularly taking into account duration of symptoms from onset to hospitalization.

A multicenter randomized trial comparing rabeprazole and itopride in patients with functional dyspepsia in Japan: the NAGOYA study

The aims of this study were to compare the therapeutic effects of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), rabeprazole (RPZ), and a prokinetic agent, itopride (ITO), and to investigate the role of PPI in the treatment strategy for Japanese functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. We randomly assigned 134 patients diagnosed by Rome III criteria to 4 weeks treatment with RPZ 10 mg/day (n = 69) or ITO 150 mg/day (n = 65). Dyspeptic symptoms were evaluated using FD scores at baseline and after 1, 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. We also divided subjects into predominantly epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) or postprandial distress syndrome (PDS), and evaluated the efficacy of RPZ and ITO respectively. RPZ showed a significant decrease in the Rate of Change (RC) in FD score within 1 week, which was maintained until after 4 weeks, with RPZ a significant effect compared with ITO at all evaluation points. In addition, RPZ showed a significant decrease in FD score in subjects with both EPS and PDS, whereas a significant decrease in the RC with ITO was only shown in those with predominant PDS. Acid-suppressive therapy with RPZ is useful for PDS as well EPS in Japanese FD patients (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN 000013962).

Ursodeoxycholic acid in advanced polycystic liver disease: A phase 2 multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) inhibits proliferation of polycystic human cholangiocytes in vitro and hepatic cystogenesis in a rat model of polycystic liver disease (PLD) in vivo. Our aim was to test whether UDCA may beneficially affect liver volume in patients with advanced PLD.

METHODS

We conducted an international, multicenter, randomized controlled trial in symptomatic PLD patients from three tertiary referral centers. Patients with PLD and total liver volume (TLV) ⩾2500ml were randomly assigned to UDCA treatment (15-20mg/kg/day) for 24weeks, or to no treatment. Primary endpoint was proportional change in TLV. Secondary endpoints were change in symptoms and health-related quality of life. We performed a post-hoc analysis of the effect of UDCA on liver cyst volume (LCV).

RESULTS

We included 34 patients and were able to assess primary endpoint in 32 patients, 16 with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and 16 with autosomal dominant polycystic liver disease (ADPLD). Proportional TLV increased by 4.6±7.7% (mean TLV increased from 6697ml to 6954ml) after 24weeks of UDCA treatment compared to 3.1±3.8% (mean TLV increased from 5512ml to 5724ml) in the control group (p=0.493). LCV was not different after 24weeks between controls and UDCA treated patients (p=0.848). However, UDCA inhibited LCV growth in ADPKD patients compared to ADPKD controls (p=0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

UDCA administration for 24weeks did not reduce TLV in advanced PLD, but UDCA reduced LCV growth in ADPKD patients. Future studies might explore whether ADPKD and ADPLD patients respond differently to UDCA treatment.

LAY SUMMARY

Current therapies for polycystic liver disease are invasive and have high recurrence risks. Our trial showed that the drug, ursodeoxycholic acid, was not able to reduce liver volume in patients with polycystic liver disease. However, a subgroup analysis in patients that have kidney cysts as well showed that liver cyst volume growth was reduced in patients who received ursodeoxycholic acid in comparison to patients who received no treatment. Trial registration number https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/: NCT02021110. EudraCT Number https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/: 2013-003207-19.

Increased Gastric Activity on Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

We anecdotally observed an increased accumulation of (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin in the stomach of myocardial perfusion patients when their uptake phase coincided with preparation of hamburgers in an adjacent room for gastric emptying studies on other patients. The potential for a scent-stimulated alteration of gastric biodistribution required further investigation.

METHODS

An experimental group and a control group were enrolled (20 patients per group). The experimental group could smell food being prepared during the uptake phase. Stomach, heart, and background regions were drawn in multiple projections, and the resulting data were evaluated.

RESULTS

The experimental and control groups did not significantly differ in stomach counts per pixel, background-corrected counts per pixel, or heart-to-stomach ratio. Further analysis of the data revealed that women had a significantly higher increase in stomach counts (P = 0.022) and background-corrected stomach counts (P = 0.018) than men.

CONCLUSION

Women had a greater increase in gastric (99m)Tc-tetrofosmin activity than men during the radiopharmaceutical uptake phase, but there was no causal relationship between an increase in activity and olfactory stimulation from the cooking of food.

Alkaline phosphatase predicts response in polycystic liver disease during somatostatin analogue therapy: a pooled analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Somatostatin analogues reduce liver volumes in polycystic liver disease. However, patients show considerable variability in treatment responses. Our aim was to identify specific patient, disease or treatment characteristics that predict response in polycystic liver disease during somatostatin analogue therapy.

METHODS

We pooled the individual patient data of four trials that evaluated long-acting somatostatin analogues (120 mg lanreotide or 40 mg octreotide) for 6-12 months in polycystic liver disease patients. We performed uni- and multivariate linear regression analysis with preselected patient, disease and drug variables to identify independent predictors of response, defined as per cent change in liver or kidney volume (in ADPKD subgroup). All analyses were adjusted for baseline liver volume and centre.

RESULTS

We included 153 polycystic liver disease patients (86% female, median liver volume 4974 ml) from three international centres, all treated with octreotide (n = 70) or lanreotide (n = 83). Mean reduction in liver volume was 4.4% (range -31.6 to +9.4%). Multivariate linear regression revealed that elevated baseline alkaline phosphatase was associated with increased liver volume reduction during therapy (-2.7%, 95% CI -5.1 to -0.2%, P = 0.04), independently of baseline liver volume. Somatostatin analogue type, underlying diagnosis and eGFR did not affect response. In our ADPKD subpopulation (n = 100), elevated alkaline phosphatase predicted liver volume reduction (-3.2%, P = 0.03) but did not predict kidney volume reduction (+0.1%, P = 0.97). Total gastro-intestinal symptom severity decreased with therapy in a subgroup analysis (n = 95; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Alkaline phosphatase is a liver-specific, independent predictor of response in polycystic liver disease during somatostatin analogue therapy.

Comparison of intravenous pantoprazole and ranitidine in patients with dyspepsia presented to the emergency department: a randomized, double blind, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare pantoprazole, a proton-pomp inhibitors (PPIs), and ranitidine, a H2 receptor antagonists (H2RA), in ceasing dyspeptic symptoms in the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

This randomized, double-blinded study compared the effectiveness of 50 mg ranitidine (Ulcuran(®)) and 40 mg pantoprazole (Pantpas(®)), given in a 100 mL saline solution by an intravenous rapid infusion within 2-4 minutes in patients with dyspepsia presented to the ED. Pain intensity was measured at baseline, 30 and 60 minutes after the drug administration.

RESULTS

A total of 72 patients were eligible for the study. Of these patients, 2 were excluded from the study because the initial visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were under 20 mm and 4 were excluded from the statistical analysis because of being diagnosed as having other causes of epigastric pain despite being allocated to one of the study groups. Thirty-three patients in the pantoprazole group and 33 patients in the ranitidine group were analyzed ultimately. The mean age of the patients was 36.6±15 years, and 26 (39.4%) patients were male. Both of the groups reduced pain effectively at 30 [27.6±28 (18 to 37) vs. 28.3±23 (20 to 37), respectively] and 60 minutes [39.6±39 (26 to 53) vs. 42.3±25 (33 to 51), respectively]. There were 13 (39.4%) patients in the pantoprazole group and 8 (24.2%) patients in the ranitidine group who required additional drug at the end of the study (P=0.186).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous pantoprazole and ranitidine are not superior to each other in ceasing dyspeptic symptoms at 30 and 60 minutes in the ED.

Gastrointestinal symptoms in NSAID users in an 'average risk population': results of a large population-based study in randomly selected Dutch inhabitants

AIM

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use is widespread and associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and complications. The aims of this study were to assess (i) gastrointestinal symptoms in users of prescribed and over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs and (ii) proton pump inhibitor (PPI) co-prescription rates in NSAID users at increased risk for gastrointestinal complications.

METHODS

Surveys were sent to a randomly selected sample of the adult Dutch general population in December 2008. Questions included demographics, gastrointestinal symptoms, medication use and comorbidity. Main outcome measure was presence of gastrointestinal symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 18,317 surveys were returned (response rate 35%), of which 16,758 surveys were eligible for analysis. Of these, 3233 participants (19%) reported NSAID use. NSAID users more frequently reported gastrointestinal symptoms than persons not using NSAIDs (33% vs. 24%, p < 0.01). Respondents who specified on prescription NSAID use (n = 683) were older, reported more comorbidity, and experienced more gastrointestinal symptoms (41%) compared with OTC users (n = 894, 33%, p < 0.01). This difference was not statistically significant after adjustment for confounders (0.99, 95% CI 0.71-1.37). In respondents with an increased gastrointestinal risk profile, PPI co-prescription rates were 51% for on prescription users and 25% for OTC users.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms was high in both prescribed and OTC NSAID users, emphasising the side effects of both types of NSAIDs. PPI co-prescription rates in NSAID users at risk for gastrointestinal complication were low.

Rising rates of proton pump inhibitor prescribing in US emergency departments

OBJECTIVE

There have been mounting safety concerns over increasing prescription rates for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Trends in PPI use have not been studied in emergency departments (EDs). We characterize trends in PPI use in US EDs.

METHODS

We used data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Care Survey, from 2001 to 2010, focusing on encounters with a reason for visit with a potential indication for a PPI, histamine receptor (H2) blocker, or antacid. Patient, provider, visit, and hospital-level factors associated with increases in PPI use were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among included visits, ED PPI prescribing more than doubled from 3.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.4-3.8) to 7.2% (95% CI: 6.3-8.3) from 2001 to 2010. Histamine receptor blocker use decreased from 6.8% (95% CI: 6.0-7.7) to 5.7% (95% CI: 4.9-6.7) and antacids from 7.2% (95% CI: 6.3-8.2) to 5.5% (95% CI: 4.8-6.3). Proton pump inhibitor prescribing was higher in males and whites yet increased across all demographics, including in adults aged 65 years and older. Proton pump inhibitor prescribing increased significantly in all US regions and across all hospital and payer types. Pantoprazole was the agent with the largest increase in use.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the past decade, there have been considerable increases in PPI prescribing in US EDs. This trend occurred despite rising safety concerns, even in populations at higher risk for adverse events such as older adults. More education may be needed to ensure that ED providers are familiar with indications for PPIs.

Gastrointestinal symptoms in low-dose aspirin users: a comparison between plain and buffered aspirin

Background

Aspirin is associated with gastrointestinal side effects such as gastric ulcers, gastric bleeding and dyspepsia. High-dose effervescent calcium carbasalate (ECC), a buffered formulation of aspirin, is associated with reduced gastric toxicity compared with plain aspirin in healthy volunteers, but at lower cardiovascular doses no beneficial effects were observed.

Aim

To compare the prevalence of self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms between low-dose plain aspirin and ECC.

Methods

A total of 51,869 questionnaires were sent to a representative sample of the Dutch adult general population in December 2008. Questions about demographics, gastrointestinal symptoms in general and specific symptoms, comorbidity, and medication use including bioequivalent doses of ECC (100 mg) and plain aspirin (80 mg) were stated. We investigated the prevalence of self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms on ECC compared with plain aspirin using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 16,715 questionnaires (32 %) were returned and eligible for analysis. Of these, 911 (5 %) respondents reported the use of plain aspirin, 633 (4 %) ECC and 15,171 reported using neither form of aspirin (91 %). The prevalence of self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms in general was higher in respondents using ECC (27.5 %) compared with plain aspirin (26.3 %), but did not differ significantly with either univariate (OR 1.06, 95 %CI 0.84–1.33), or multivariate analysis (aOR 1.08, 95 %CI 0.83–1.41). Also, none of the specific types of symptoms differed between the two aspirin formulations.

Conclusions

In this large cohort representative of the general Dutch population, low-dose ECC is not associated with a reduction in self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms compared with plain aspirin.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s12471-014-0522-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A one-year economic evaluation of six alternative strategies in the management of uninvestigated upper gastrointestinal symptoms in Canadian primary care

BACKGROUND

The cost-effectiveness of initial strategies in managing Canadian patients with uninvestigated upper gastrointestinalsymptoms remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the cost-effectiveness of six management approaches to uninvestigated upper gastrointestinal symptoms in the Canadian setting.

METHODS

The present study analyzed data from four randomized trials assessing homogeneous and complementary populations of Canadian patients with uninvestigated upper gastrointestinal symptoms with comparable outcomes. Symptom-free months, qualityadjusted life-years (QALYs) and direct costs in Canadian dollars of two management approaches based on the Canadian Dyspepsia Working Group (CanDys) Clinical Management Tool, and four additional strategies (two empirical antisecretory agents, and two prompt endoscopy) were examined and compared. Prevalence data, probabilities, utilities and costs were included in a Markov model, while sensitivity analysis used Monte Carlo simulations. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves were determined.

RESULTS

Empirical omeprazole cost $226 per QALY ($49 per symptom-free month) per patient. CanDys omeprazole and endoscopy approaches were more effective than empirical omeprazole, but more costly. Alternatives using H2-receptor antagonists were less effective than those using a proton pump inhibitor. No significant differences were found for most incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. As willingness to pay (WTP) thresholds rose from $226 to $24,000 per QALY, empirical antisecretory approaches were less likely to be the most costeffective choice, with CanDys omeprazole progressively becoming a more likely option. For WTP values ranging from $24,000 to $70,000 per QALY, the most clinically relevant range, CanDys omeprazole was the most cost-effective strategy (32% to 46% of the time), with prompt endoscopy-proton pump inhibitor favoured at higher WTP values.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no strategy was the indisputable cost effective option, CanDys omeprazole may be the strategy of choiceover a clinically relevant range of WTP assumptions in the initial management of Canadian patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia.<p>

Antidepressants and gastrointestinal symptoms in the general Dutch adult population

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal symptoms are frequently reported adverse effects of antidepressants, but antidepressants are also a treatment modality in functional gastrointestinal disorders. We aimed to assess the association between antidepressant use and gastrointestinal symptoms in the general adult population.

METHODS

We assessed gastrointestinal symptoms, medication use, and comorbidity through structured questionnaires in randomly selected individuals. We compared presence of gastrointestinal symptoms in respondents who reported antidepressant use with those who did not. We used multivariable regression analysis to verify the association between antidepressant use and gastrointestinal symptoms.

RESULTS

In total, 16,758 questionnaires were returned and eligible for analysis. Antidepressant use was reported by 701 respondents (4.2%). Gastrointestinal symptoms were more frequently reported by antidepressant users compared with nonusers (40% vs 25%, P < 0.01). This apparent association between antidepressant use and gastrointestinal symptoms did not remain after adjusting for demographic factors, comorbidity, and use of other medications (adjusted odds ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.74-1.18).

CONCLUSIONS

In our cross-sectional population-based study, we did not find an association between antidepressant use and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Life stress as a determinant of emotional well-being: development and validation of a Spanish-Language Checklist of Stressful Life Events

Objectives: To develop a screening instrument for investigating the prevalence and impact of stressful life events in Spanish-speaking Peruvian adults. Background: Researchers have demonstrated the causal connection between life stress and psychosocial and physical complaints. The need for contextually relevant and updated instruments has been also addressed. Methods: A sequential exploratory design combined qualitative and quantitative information from two studies: first, the content validity of 20 severe stressors (N = 46); then, a criterion-related validity process with affective symptoms as criteria (Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-25), N = 844). Results: 93% of the participants reported one to eight life events (X = 3.93, Mdn = 3, SD = 7.77). Events increase significantly until 60 years of age (Mdn = 6). Adults born in inland regions (Mdn = 4) or with secondary or technical education (Mdn = 5) reported significantly more stressors than participants born in Lima or with higher education. There are no differences by gender. Four-step hierarchical models showed that life stress is the best unique predictor (β) of HSCL anxiety, depression and general distress (p < .001). Age and gender are significant for the three criteria (p < .01, p < .001); lower education and unemployment are significant unique predictors of general distress and depression (p < .01; p < .05). Previously, the two-factor structure of the HSCL-25 was verified (Satorra-Bentler chi-square, root-mean-square error of approximation = 0.059; standardized root-mean-square residual = 0.055). Conclusion: The Spanish-Language Checklist of Stressful Life Events is a valid instrument to identify adults with significant levels of life stress and possible risk for mental and physical health (clinical utility).

Gastrointestinal symptoms are still prevalent and negatively impact health-related quality of life: a large cross-sectional population based study in The Netherlands

Background

Over the last decades important risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms have shifted, which may have changed its population prevalence. The aim of this study was to assess the current prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms, appraise associated factors and assess health-related quality of life in the general population.

Methods

A total of 51,869 questionnaires were sent to a representative sample of the Dutch adult general population in December 2008. Demographic characteristics, gastrointestinal symptoms, health-related quality of life, medication use and co-morbidity were reported. We used multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine factors associated with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Results

A total of 18,317 questionnaires were returned, and 16,758 were eligible for analysis. Prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms was 26%. Most frequent symptoms were bloating (63%), borborygmi (60%) and flatulence (71%). Female gender (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.59, 95% CI 1.43–1.77), asthma/COPD (aOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.21–1.79), use of paracetamol (aOR 1.33, 95% CI 1.20–1.47), antidepressants (aOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.22–2.00) and acid-suppressive medication were independently associated with presence of gastrointestinal symptoms. Age over 65 years (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.65–0.87), and use of statins (aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61–0.93) were associated with a lower prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms. Respondents with gastrointestinal symptoms had a lower mean health-related quality of life of 0.81 (SD = 0.21) compared to 0.92 (SD = 0.14) for persons without gastrointestinal symptoms (P<0.01).

Conclusions

Prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms in the Dutch community is high and associated with decreased health-related quality of life.

Differences in utilisation of gastroprotective drugs between 2001 and 2005 in Australia and Nova Scotia, Canada

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare use of histamine H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), 2001-2005, in the elderly and social security beneficiaries in Australia (AUS) and Nova Scotia, Canada (NS).

METHODS

Prescription dispensing data were collected for all subsidised H2RAs and PPIs. In AUS, dispensing data for concession beneficiaries were obtained from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme database. In NS, data were sourced from the Pharmacare database. Relevant population data were used to convert to World Health Organisation Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical defined daily doses (2005) per 1000 beneficiaries per day (DDD/1000/day).

RESULTS

Overall use of gastroprotective agents was similar and rising in NS and AUS (100-160 DDD/1000/day) over this 5-year time window. However, the proportion of this use accounted for by PPIs was far higher in AUS (over 85% by 2005) than in NS (23% rising to 35% over the 5 years). In AUS, PPI use rose from 50 to about 140 DDD/1000/day over the 5 years, whereas PPI use in NS rose slowly to less than 60 DDD/1000/day by 2005. H2RA use in NS was always high (over 100 DDD/1000/day), whereas in AUS, H2RA use fell from 54 to around 24 DDD/1000/day over this period.

CONCLUSIONS

AUS had much higher use of PPIs than NS over 2001-2005. The proportion of PPIs in all gastroprotective agents rose in AUS to be nearly 90%. The differences in utilisation during this time window could lead to differences in health outcomes from either lower gastro-intestinal bleeding risk or higher long-term adverse effects of PPIs.

Chaihu-Shugan-San, an oriental herbal preparation, for the treatment of chronic gastritis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Chronic gastritis is a very common disease of the digestive tract. Although herbal preparation Chaihu-Shugan-San (CSS) has been widely used as an alternative treatment for chronic gastritis in East Asia, its effectiveness is not verified. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of CSS in treating various types of chronic gastritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of pertinent literature via Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, Wanfang Data, Vip Information and the Cochrane Library search using the keywords "Chaihushugan" or "Chaihu Shugan" or "Chai Hu Shu Gan" or "Chaihu Shu Gan". Twenty-one trials were identified including 2572 patients (1384 in CSS group and 1188 in chemotherapy group). Each trial was independently reviewed by two assessors.

RESULTS

The risk ratios of bile reflux gastritis, chronic superficial gastritis, chronic atrophic gastritis, and chronic erosive gastritis in the CSS-treated and chemotherapy groups were 1.30, 1.20, 1.24, and 1.48, respectively. CSS had more therapeutic effect in various types of chronic gastritis patients for improving clinical response compared with the chemotherapy group. Of the 21 trials administrating CSS to patients, no adverse event was reported.

CONCLUSIONS

CSS was more effective compared to chemotherapy in the treatment of chronic gastritis and no serious side-effects were identified. However, the evidence is insufficient because of the low methodological quality of the included trials. More full-scale, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials are recommended to further evaluate the therapeutic benefit of CSS.

[Clinical practice guideline on the management of patients with dyspepsia. Update 2012]

The aim of the Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) on the Management of Patients with Dyspepsia is to generate recommendations on the optimal approach to dyspepsia in the primary care and specialized outpatient setting. The main objective of this CPG is to help to optimize the diagnostic process, identifying patients with a low risk of a serious organic disease (mainly tumoral), who could be safely managed without the need for invasive diagnostic tests and/or referral to a specialist. The importance of this aim lies in the need to accurately diagnose patients with esophagogastric cancer and correctly treat peptic ulcer while, at the same time, reduce negative endoscopies in order to appropriately use the available healthcare resources. This CPG reviews the initial strategies that can be used in patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia and evaluates the possible decision to begin empirical therapy or to investigate the existence of a lesion that could explain the symptoms. This CPG also discusses functional dyspepsia, which encompasses all patients with dyspepsia with no demonstrable cause on endoscopy. Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of peptic ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection are also made. To classify the scientific evidence and strengthen the recommendations, the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Working Group) system has been used (http://www.gradeworkinggroup.org/).

[Clinical practice guideline on the management of patients with dyspepsia. Update 2012]

The aim of the Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) on the Management of Patients with Dyspepsia is to generate recommendations on the optimal approach to dyspepsia in the primary care and specialized outpatient setting. The main objective of this CPG is to help to optimize the diagnostic process, identifying patients with a low risk of a serious organic disease (mainly tumoral), who could be safely managed without the need for invasive diagnostic tests and/or referral to a specialist. The importance of this aim lies in the need to accurately diagnose patients with esophagogastric cancer and correctly treat peptic ulcer while, at the same time, reduce negative endoscopies in order to appropriately use the available healthcare resources.This CPG reviews the initial strategies that can be used in patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia and evaluates the possible decision to begin empirical therapy or to investigate the existence of a lesion that could explain the symptoms. This CPG also discusses functional dyspepsia, which encompasses all patients with dyspepsia with no demonstrable cause on endoscopy. Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of peptic ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection are also made. To classify the scientific evidence and strengthen the recommendations, the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Working Group) system has been used (http://www.gradeworkinggroup.org/).

Patient adherence to prescribed medication instructions for dyspepsia: the DIAMOND-study

BACKGROUND

Insight into patient adherence is needed to enable an effect evaluation of medication for dyspepsia.

OBJECTIVES

Adherence was explored by investigating two adherence outcome measures (completeness and intake fidelity) using data from the DIAMOND-study.

METHODS

The DIAMOND-study is a pragmatic RCT comparing a 'step-up' with a 'step-down' treatment strategy. In step 1 participants (n =653) were instructed to use five pills/day for maximally 30 days: an antacid 4dd plus a placebo 1dd ('step-up') or a proton pump inhibitor 1dd plus a placebo 4dd ('step-down'). If the complaints persisted, step 2 was started (H(2)-receptor antagonist 2dd), and subsequently step 3 (five pills/day, placebo and verum vice versa from step 1). Completeness was assessed by pill counts, intake fidelity by patient questionnaires measuring the degree to which patients adhered to specific instructions concerning timing, frequency, dose and way of intake.

RESULTS

In step 1, patients used on average 3.9 pills/day (78% of the prescribed doses), in step 2, 1.7 pills/day (85%) and in step 3, 3.6 pills/day (72%). For the four times daily pills, half of the patients used less than 80% of the prescribed pills per day. This was one third of the patients for the twice daily pills and one quarter for the once daily pills. There were no completeness differences between active or placebo medication and no differences between the study arms. As regards intake fidelity, 70% of the patients made one or more errors in the medication intake.

CONCLUSION

There is room for improvement in adherence rates for dyspepsia medication.

Histamine H2 receptor antagonists for decreasing gastrointestinal harms in adults using acetylsalicylic acid: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

It is unclear if histamine H2 receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) prevent a variety of gastrointestinal harms among patients taking acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) over long periods.

METHODS

Electronic databases (e.g., MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; from inception to November 2010) and reference lists of retrieved articles were searched. Randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of H2 blockers in reducing gastrointestinal harms (bleeding, ulcers) among adults taking ASA for 2 weeks or longer were included. Two reviewers independently abstracted study and patient characteristics and appraised study quality using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Peto odds ratio (OR) meta-analysis was performed, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I (2) and χ(2) statistics.

RESULTS

Six RCTs (4 major publications and 2 companion reports) with a total of 498 participants (healthy volunteers or patients with arthritis, cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or diabetes mellitus) were included. One trial adequately reported allocation concealment and sequence generation, with the other 3 trials being judged as unclear for both aspects. In one RCT, no statistically significant differences for gastrointestinal hemorrhage requiring admission to hospital (p = 0.14) or blood transfusion (p = 0.29) were observed between the group receiving concomitant famotidine and ASA and the group receiving concomitant placebo and ASA. After a median of 8 weeks' follow-up, H2 blockers were more effective than placebo in reducing gastrointestinal hemorrhage (2 RCTs, total of 447 patients, OR 0.07, 95% CI 0.02-0.23) and peptic ulcers (3 RCTs, total of 465 patients, OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.12-0.36) among patients taking ASA for 2 weeks or longer. Despite substantial clinical heterogeneity across the studies, including types of H2 blockers, dosing of ASA and underlying conditions, no statistical heterogeneity was observed.

INTERPRETATION

H2 blockers reduced gastrointestinal harm among patients taking ASA for 2 weeks or longer. These results should be interpreted with caution, because of the small number of studies identified for inclusion.

Randomised health services studies

The randomised controlled (or clinical) trial (RCT) is recognized as the most valid among the study designs. The use of RCT in research is widespread and well formalised. In contrast, implementations of new methods and policies in routine health care are commonly lacking a formalised design, impairing the ability to evaluate and improve health care. Use of experimental designs in health care is possible at the implementation phase of clinical or preventive action or more broad process-of-care. We propose the terminology randomised health services studies (RHS) to denote the use of a randomised design with observations in routine health care, regardless of whether randomisation is done at individual, population or process level. In contrast to RCT, the RHS should be based on the same regulative actions, funding mechanisms and ethical framework as routine health care itself. This commentary discusses the different basis, practicalities, and formalities that distinguish the RHS from the RCT. Development of a formalised framework for RHS, including distinct registration, could contribute to an increased use of valid methods in effectiveness research, thus gaining better and more direct evidence on routine medical practice.

Clinically significant drug interactions with antacids: an update

One may consider that drug-drug interactions (DDIs) associated with antacids is an obsolete topic because they are prescribed less frequently by medical professionals due to the advent of drugs that more effectively suppress gastric acidity (i.e. histamine H(2)-receptor antagonists [H2RAs] and proton pump inhibitors [PPIs]). Nevertheless, the use of antacids by ambulant patients may be ever increasing, because they are freely available as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Antacids consisting of weak basic substances coupled with polyvalent cations may alter the rate and/or the extent of absorption of concomitantly administered drugs via different mechanisms. Polyvalent cations in antacid formulations may form insoluble chelate complexes with drugs and substantially reduce their bioavailability. Clinical studies demonstrated that two classes of antibacterials (tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones) are susceptible to clinically relevant DDIs with antacids through this mechanism. Countermeasures against this type of DDI include spacing out the dosing interval - taking antacid either 4 hours before or 2 hours after administration of these antibacterials. Bisphosphonates may be susceptible to DDIs with antacids by the same mechanism, as described in the prescription information of most bisphosphonates, but no quantitative data about the DDIs are available. For drugs with solubility critically dependent on pH, neutralization of gastric fluid by antacids may alter the dissolution of these drugs and the rate and/or extent of their absorption. However, the magnitude of DDIs elicited by antacids through this mechanism is less than that produced by H2RAs or PPIs; therefore, the clinical relevance of such DDIs is often obscure. Magnesium ions contained in some antacid formulas may increase gastric emptying, thereby accelerating the rate of absorption of some drugs. However, the clinical relevance of this is unclear in most cases because the difference in plasma drug concentration observed after dosing shortly disappears. Recent reports have indicated that some of the molecular-targeting agents such as the tyrosine kinase inhibitors dasatinib and imatinib, and the thrombopoietin receptor agonist eltrombopag may be susceptible to DDIs with antacids. Finally, the recent trend of developing OTC drugs as combination formulations of an antacid and an H2RA is a concern because these drugs will increase the risk of DDIs by dual mechanisms, i.e. a gastric pH-dependent mechanism by H2RAs and a cation-mediated chelation mechanism by antacids.

Serotonin receptor 3A polymorphism c.-42C > T is associated with severe dyspepsia

BACKGROUND

The association between anxiety and depression related traits and dyspepsia may reflect a common genetic predisposition. Furthermore, genetic factors may contribute to the risk of having increased visceral sensitivity, which has been implicated in dyspeptic symptom generation. Serotonin (5-HT) modulates visceral sensitivity by its action on 5-HT3 receptors. Interestingly, a functional polymorphism in HTR3A, encoding the 5-HT3 receptor A subunit, has been reported to be associated with depression and anxiety related traits. A functional polymorphism in the serotonin transporter (5-HTT), which terminates serotonergic signalling, was also found associated with these psychiatric comorbidities and increased visceral sensitivity in irritable bowel syndrome, which coexistence is associated with higher dyspeptic symptom severity. We investigated the association between these functional polymorphisms and dyspeptic symptom severity.

METHODS

Data from 592 unrelated, Caucasian, primary care patients with dyspepsia participating in a randomised clinical trial comparing step-up and step-down antacid drug treatment (The DIAMOND trial) were analysed. Patients were genotyped for HTR3A c.-42C > T SNP and the 44 bp insertion/deletion polymorphism in the 5-HTT promoter (5-HTTLPR). Intensity of 8 dyspeptic symptoms at baseline was assessed using a validated questionnaire (0 = none; 6 = very severe). Sum score ≥20 was defined severe dyspepsia.

RESULTS

HTR3A c.-42T allele carriers were more prevalent in patients with severe dyspepsia (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.06-2.20). This association appeared to be stronger in females (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.25-3.39) and patients homozygous for the long (L) variant of the 5-HTTLPR genotype (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.01-3.94). Females with 5-HTTLPR LL genotype showed the strongest association (OR = 3.50, 95% CI = 1.37-8.90).

CONCLUSIONS

The HTR3A c.-42T allele is associated with severe dyspeptic symptoms. The stronger association among patients carrying the 5-HTTLPR L allele suggests an additive effect of the two polymorphisms. These results support the hypothesis that diminished 5-HT3 mediated antinociception predisposes to increased visceral sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, the HTR3A c.-42C > T and 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms likely represent predisposing genetic variants in common to psychiatric morbidity and dyspepsia.

Efficacy of a simethicone, activated charcoal and magnesium oxide combination (Carbosymag®) in functional dyspepsia: results of a general practice-based randomized trial

BACKGROUND

A simethicone, activated charcoal and magnesium oxide combination (Carbosymag(®)) has been used for almost 20 years in functional dyspepsia, but there is limited scientific evidence of efficacy.

AIM

We evaluated the efficacy of Carbosymag(®) in 18- to 49-year-old patients with functional dyspepsia.

METHODS

A total of 276 dyspeptic patients consulting a general practitioner and meeting the Rome III criteria were included in this prospective placebo-controlled study. Variations in overall and individual dyspeptic symptoms were evaluated after 1 month of treatment.

RESULTS

At the end of the treatment period, overall dyspeptic symptom intensity was significantly lower in the Carbosymag(®) group (P=0.01). The intensity of post-prandial fullness, epigastric pain, epigastric burning and abdominal bloating was significantly reduced in the Carbosymag(®) group relative to the placebo group (P<0.05). The number need to treat to induce a 70-% decrease in overall dyspeptic symptoms by Carbosymag(®) was 7 (IC 95%: 4-32).

CONCLUSION

A simethicone, activated charcoal and magnesium oxide combination (Carbosymag(®)) was significantly more effective than a placebo on overall symptom intensity in dyspeptic patients consulting a general practitioner.

Non-pharmacological intervention for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in primary care

BACKGROUND

Up to 50% of patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) have persistent symptoms despite taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) regularly. Lifestyle advice is available to patients, but no previous UK study has tested a behavioural change intervention to help patients self-manage their symptoms.

AIM

To determine whether a primary care, nurse-led intervention to address behaviours that promote GORD symptoms results in symptom improvement, an increased sense of control, and a reduced requirement for prescribed medication.

DESIGN OF STUDY

A group intervention focusing on diet and stress was delivered to patients with reflux symptoms, recruited in rural general practices.

SETTING

General practice in England.

METHOD

Forty-two subjects (male 19, female 23) aged 31-86 years took part. Pre- and post-intervention data were gathered using the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), the GORD Impact Scale (GIS), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD).

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement (BIPQ P<0.001, GIS P = 0.008) 3 months after the intervention. There was no reduction in PPI use or change in HAD score. The greatest improvements were demonstrated in domains measuring the patient's sense of control, perception of symptoms, and understanding of reflux. Patients reported benefits including understanding relevant anatomy and physiology, learning behavioural techniques to change eating patterns and manage stress, identifying actual and potential triggers, and developing and executing action plans.

CONCLUSION

An education programme for GORD enhances self-management, brings perceived symptom improvement, and promotes a sense of control at 3 months. This type of behavioural intervention, alongside medical management, could improve symptom control for reflux patients with refractory symptoms and should be the subject of a controlled trial.

Potential savings of a program to prevent ankle sprain recurrence: economic evaluation of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The most common ankle injury is the lateral ankle sprain. Dutch annual sports-related ankle sprain costs can roughly be estimated at €187,200,000. Research has shown that proprioceptive training accounts for an approximated overall 50% reduction in ankle sprain recurrence rate.

HYPOTHESIS

An unsupervised proprioceptive training program to reduce the recurrence of lateral ankle sprains will reduce overall health care costs.

DESIGN

Cohort study (economic analysis); Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

The study included 522 male and female athletes: 256 athletes (120 female and 136 male) in the intervention group, and 266 athletes (128 female and 138 male) in the control group. Both groups received treatment according to usual care. Athletes allocated to the intervention group received an 8-week proprioceptive training program in addition to usual care. Costs per athlete and costs per injured athlete were calculated. Costs related to ankle sprain recurrences were measured from a societal perspective using cost diaries. Bootstrapping was used to analyze the cost-effectiveness data. Follow-up was 1 year.

RESULTS

Mean total costs in the intervention group were €81 (standard deviation, €134) per athlete and €114 (€325) per injured athlete. Mean overall costs in the control group were €149 (€836) per athlete and €447 (€1403) per injured athlete. Statistically significant differences in total costs were found per athlete (mean difference, -€69; 95% confidence interval, -€200 to -€2) and per injured athlete (-€332; -€741 to -€62) in favor of the intervention group. A cost-effectiveness plane showed the effect of the intervention was larger and the costs were lower in the intervention group than the control group.

CONCLUSION

The use of a proprioceptive training program after usual care of an ankle sprain is cost-effective for the prevention of ankle sprain recurrences in comparison with usual care alone. In the Netherlands, an estimated annual €35.9 million in medical and lost productivity costs can be saved solely by advocating a proprioceptive training program as in the present study.

Helicobacter pylori infection and nonmalignant diseases

Several interesting studies have been published on nonmalignant Helicobacter pylori-related conditions over the past year, which are reviewed in this article. A revival of interest in the histologic classification of gastritis has led to grading of gastritis into stages correlating with risk of neoplastic progression, new data to improve this concept have been published. Unselected prescription of proton-pump inhibitors in patients with dyspepsia has been questioned by the finding that withdrawal of proton-pump inhibitors induces acid-related symptoms in healthy volunteers, probably by the mechanism of rebound gastric acid hypersecretion. Additional data on the rationale of tapering proton-pump inhibitor therapy are therefore awaited. Moreover, new data on peptic ulcer disease and its complications provide clear recommendations for daily clinical practice. Testing and eradication of H. pylori in patients with peptic ulcer bleeding is essential. However, in H. pylori-negative peptic ulcer disease, high overall patient mortality should be acknowledged, and this should guide considering continuation of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The role of H. pylori in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease is still unclear. An association has been described by several studies; however, it cannot be translated to individual risks for development of gastroesophageal reflux disease after H. pylori eradication. Possibly, additional data on subgroups, such as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer patients, and associated gastric mucosal changes, will solve this issue.

Managing dyspepsia

The prevalence of dyspepsia in the general population is as high as 40%, and its management represents a considerable financial burden to the health care system. Causes of dyspepsia amenable to medical therapy include peptic ulcer and functional dyspepsia, and testing for Helicobacter pylori and treating positive individuals is beneficial in both conditions. Individuals presenting for the first time with uninvestigated dyspepsia, age greater than 50 years, or alarm features require upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy to exclude gastroesophageal malignancy. Upper GI endoscopy for younger individuals without alarm features is not cost-effective compared with the "test and treat" approach. Test and treat and empirical acid-suppression using a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) have similar costs and effects. Recent evidence suggests that empirical acid suppression commencing with antacids is as effective as PPI. Screening and treatment of H. pylori in PPI users and the community may reduce the costs of managing dyspepsia.

Influence of gastric mucosal status on success of stepwise acid suppressive therapy for dyspepsia

BACKGROUND

The most effective initial treatment strategy of dyspepsia is still under debate. Individual biological characteristics, such as condition of gastric mucosa, might contribute to selection of the most appropriate acid suppression treatment strategy.

AIM

To assess whether pre-treatment testing of gastric mucosal status is relevant for treatment success in an RCT comparing step-up and step-down therapies in newly diagnosed dyspepsia patients.

METHODS

Baseline serum samples were collected to assess gastric mucosal status using serum levels of pepsinogens-I&II, gastrin-17, and Helicobacter pylori IgA/IgG-antibodies. The 6-month treatment success was compared between step-up and step-down for patients with serum diagnoses: normal; gastritis; corpus atrophy or antrum atrophy.

RESULTS

In all, 519 patients (M/F: 249/270, age: 47 (18-85) years, 29%H. pylori+) were randomized to step-up (n = 293) or step-down (n = 226). Normal mucosa, gastritis and corpus atrophy were diagnosed serologically in 70%, 28% and 2% of the patients, evenly distributed between the strategies (P = 0.65). Treatment success was achieved in respectively, 69%, 70% and 70% for the serum diagnosis groups, and did not differ between the strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Dyspepsia treatment success could not be predicted by gastric mucosal status. Therefore, serum diagnosis of gastric mucosal status is no useful tool for patient allocation to acid suppressive treatment strategies.