What is the drug of choice for treating NSAID-induced ulcers?

Misoprostol is the drug of choice for treating NSAID-induced ulcers due to its dual mechanism of action: it not only helps to heal existing ulcers but also offers protection against the formation of new ulcers in patients who are required to take NSAIDs. Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analog that enhances mucosal defense mechanisms, increases gastric mucosa blood flow, stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion, and promotes epithelial cell regeneration. This is particularly important for patients on long-term NSAID therapy, which can disrupt the balance of gastric mucosal defense and acid secretion, leading to ulcer formation.

While other options have roles in ulcer treatment, they do not provide the same protective effect against NSAID-induced damage. For instance, sucralfate, although it can aid in the management of ulcers, primarily acts by forming a protective barrier and does not influence the underlying causes related to NSAIDs. Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, reduces gastric acid secretion and can be effective in treating ulcers but does not directly protect against NSAID-induced injury. Similarly, cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist that reduces acid secretion but lacks the protective properties provided by misoprostol.

In summary, misoprostol