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13 - Case Study: Treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease with Omeprazole

from Part III - Case Studies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 March 2025

Karen B. Schmaling  and
Robert M. Kaplan
Karen B. Schmaling
Affiliation:
Washington State University
Robert M. Kaplan
Affiliation:
Stanford University
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Summary

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition that can be controlled with proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole. We examine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of omeprazole and find stronger evidence of efficacy among RCTs with industry support than without. The participants in these trials were unlike most people who take proton pump inhibitors, raising questions about the external validity of RCTs. Furthermore, use of these medicines is associated with short- and longer-term adverse effects. Healthy behavior change, such as weight loss, holds promise as an alternative to proton pump inhibitors.

Keywords

biasgastroesophageal reflux diseasehealth behaviorsomeprazoleproton pump inhibitorsquality of lifesocial determinants of health
Type
Chapter
Information
Rethinking Clinical Research
Methodology and Ethics
 , pp. 253 - 272
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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