Treatment Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Research Articles

Mechanisms of Luteolin Against Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease Based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation.

Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid. The effectiveness of luteolin-rich drugs in treating gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) through traditional Chinese medicine has been demonstrated. This study aimed to identify the potential targets and mechanisms of action of luteolin for the treatment of GERD. An innovative approach combining network pharmacology and molecular dynamics was used to explore the potential therapeutic mechanisms of luteolin and to facilitate the further development of GERD treatment. Drug and disease target information was screened from public databases to obtain 159 intersecting targets through the construction of Venn diagrams. Subsequently, a protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and 10 core targets were identified. Through Gene Ontology (GO) functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses, relevant biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions related to the treatment of GERD were identified and revealed. KEGG pathway analyses showed enrichment of signaling pathways, including the TNF, IL-17, NF-kappa B, and Toll-like receptor pathways. The molecular docking results indicated that luteolin can effectively bind to 10 core targets. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the formation of stable protein‒ligand complexes when IL6 binds to luteolin. In conclusion, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations were utilized to investigate the mechanism by which luteolin treats GERD. These findings establish a theoretical foundation for future research on the efficacy of luteolin in treating GERD.

Optimizing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease treatment: A call to shift from omeprazole.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder of the upper respiratory tract, which develops due to the regurgitation of acid from the stomach into the oesophagus. If left untreated, GERD may cause serious complications such as Barrett's oesophagus, oesophageal strictures, and oesophageal adenocarcinoma. According to a study published by Nirwan JS et al in 2020, individuals suffering from Gastroesophageal reflux disease globally is 1.03 billion.[1] Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are frequently used drugs for the treatment of GERD. Omeprazole belongs to PPIs class of drugs and it has been a drug of choice for GERD because it is affordable, easily available, and it can be taken along with other medicines. However, Proton pump inhibitors are not completely risk-free, chronic use of Proton Pump inhibitors has been associated with decreased calcium and magnesium absorption increasing the risk of osteoporosis and electrolyte disturbances respectively. It also increases the risk of community-acquired pneumonia [2] However, Esomeprazole the s-isomer of omeprazole yields much better results than omeprazole. It is more effective and safe in the treatment of GERD, not only does it decrease the symptoms of the disease rapidly ie. heartburn [4] but also it reduces the relapse of the symptoms twice that of omeprazole. Maintenance of intragastric pH > 4 is an effective measure for the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease, esomeprazole has demonstrated improved acid inhibition over omeprazole with a high mean percentage of 24-hour intragastric pH > 4. The healing rate for reflux esophagitis and relapse was also higher for esomeprazole than that of omeprazole.[3] According to a study, the number of individuals with GERD in the South Asia region is around 8000 per 100000 [4]. Knowing the extent of Gastroesophageal patients present in Pakistan and how rapidly this number can escalate due to poor lifestyle modifications. Omeprazole which is the most frequent drug prescribed for the treatment of GERD [5] should be discouraged and Esomeprazole being more beneficial in terms of healing time and relapse of symptoms should be promoted to prevent chronic use adverse effects of Proton pump inhibitors. Overall, such a measure will improve the quality of life of a person suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease which otherwise may lead to more severe implications.

Endoscopic assessment of failed fundoplications differs between endoscopists.

Despite excellent long-term outcomes, a small proportion of patients who undergo fundoplication with hiatal hernia repair (laparoscopic antireflux surgery [ARS]) for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may require reoperation. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) assessment in patients presenting with symptom recurrence plays a critical role in surgical planning of redo-ARS by confirming failure of the fundoplication and revealing the pattern of failure. We aimed to compare the findings documented by external endoscopists (i.e., outside physicians) to those documented by internal endoscopists (i.e., operating foregut or thoracic surgeons) before redo-ARS. After IRB approval, we conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent redo-ARS at a tertiary surgical center between November 2016 and March 2023. Patients with both external and internal EGD reports were included, and findings from the two reports were compared. Of 197 patients who underwent redo-ARS, both preoperative EGD reports were available for 181 (136 [75.1%] women; median age, 61years [IQR 53-69]; median BMI, 27.9kg/m2 [IQR 24.9-31.3]). The median time between primary and redo-ARS was 89months (IQR 38-153), and the median time between external and internal endoscopic evaluation was 5months (IQR 2-12). Only 38.9% of external reports mentioned a prior fundoplication. Compared to the operating surgeons, external physicians reported a significantly lower proportion of Barrett's esophagus (52.4%, p < .001), slipped fundoplications (28.8%, p < .001), paraesophageal hernias (20.5%, p < .001), disrupted fundoplications (20%, p < .001), intrathoracic fundoplications (0%, p < .001), and twisted fundoplications (0%, p < .001). External endoscopists' reports of failed fundoplications are often incomplete and lack relevant details. Discrepancies between nonsurgical endoscopists and experienced surgeons are likely explained by a lack of training and experience to discern and document fundoplication changes accurately. To reduce this gap, we strongly recommend the adoption of standard definitions describing post-fundoplication endoscopic changes and the inclusion of relevant training within educational programs.

Deprescribing Proton Pump Inhibitors: Updated Clinical Guidelines

The diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults has been steadily increasing over the years. GERD is often treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Studies have found upwards of 82% of PPIs are not being used following evidenced-based guidelines. The American College of Gastroenterology and American Gastroenterology Association released updated guidelines in 2022 for the treatment of GERD and deprescribing of PPIs. It is imperative for health care providers to review the updated guidelines. This report will review the guidelines and suggest a comprehensive deprescribing PPI protocol.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation vs subtotal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction for the treatment of postsleeve gastrectomy gastroesophageal reflux disease

BackgroundObesity affects more than one-third of Americans and can be treated with bariatric surgery, most commonly sleeve gastrectomy (SG). SG has been shown to increase the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in some patients, which can be refractory to medical management. Surgical options for post-SG GERD include magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) and subtotal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (SGRY). A comparative analysis of MSA and SGRY for post-SG GERD was performed to evaluate postoperative outcomes. MethodsA retrospectively maintained prospectively gathered database from 2018 to 2023 was used to identify patients who underwent MSA or SGRY for the indication of GERD after SG. Differences among patient characteristics; GERD assessments, including the health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaire and the reflux symptom index (RSI); and procedure outcomes were collected and analyzed according to surgery type. ResultsA total of 92 patients (85 females and 7 males) met the inclusion criteria. The study included 17 patients in the MSA group, 71 patients in the SGRY group, and 4 patients who underwent both procedures. The average preoperative body mass index (BMI) of all patients was 33.3. Compared with patients who underwent MSA, those who underwent SGRY presented with higher BMI (29.4 vs 34.2, respectively; P = .013), preoperative GERD-HRQL (35 vs 52, respectively; P = .046), and RSI (14 vs 28, respectively; P = .017). Postoperatively, patients who underwent SGRY demonstrated a higher decrease in mean postoperative DeMeester score than those who underwent MSA (44.2 vs 13.9, respectively; P = .040), with 22 patients (50%) in the SGRY group vs 10 patients (20%) in the MSA group achieving normalization. ConclusionAlthough MSA remains a viable surgical alternative, our study indicated that SGRY can produce better symptom control and decrease acid exposure compared with MSA in patients with post-SG GERD.

Treating acid reflux without compressing the food passageway: 4-year safety and clinical outcomes with the RefluxStop device in a prospective multicenter study

IntroductionRefluxStop is an implantable device for laparoscopic surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to restore and maintain lower esophageal sphincter and angle of His anatomy without encircling and putting pressure on the food passageway, thereby avoiding side effects such as dysphagia and bloating seen with traditional fundoplication. This study reports the clinical outcomes with RefluxStop at 4 years following implantation of the device.MethodsA prospective, single arm, multicenter clinical investigation analyzing safety and effectiveness of the RefluxStop device in 50 patients with chronic GERD.ResultsAvailable data are presented for 44 patients at 4 years with the addition of three patients at 3 years carried forward. At 4 years, median GERD-HRQL score was 90% reduced compared to baseline. Two patients (2/44) used regular daily proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) despite subsequent 24-h pH monitoring off PPI therapy yielding normal results. There were no device-related adverse events (AEs), esophageal dilations, migrations, or explants during the entire study period. AEs reported between 1 and 4 years were as follows: one subject with heartburn and a pathologic pH result with device positioned too low at surgery; one subject with dysphagia, thus, 46/47 patients reported no dysphagia-related AEs between years 1 and 4. Two patients (2/47) were dissatisfied with treatment despite normal 24-h pH monitoring, of whom one had manometry-verified dysmotility at 6 months, indicating dissatisfaction for reasons other than acid reflux.ConclusionThese results confirm the excellent and already published 1-year results as stable in the long-term, supporting the safety and effectiveness of the RefluxStop device in treating GERD for over 4 years. GERD-HRQL score, pH testing, and PPI usage indicate treatment success without dysphagia or gas-bloating and only minimal incidence of other AEs. This favorably low rate of AEs is likely attributable to RefluxStop’s dynamic physiologic interaction and non-encircling nature.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus causes symptoms and/or complications. The prevalence of GERD in Western societies has been estimated at 30%, making it one of the most commonly encountered disorders in primary care. The spectrum of GERD includes typical symptoms of esophageal reflux (heartburn and/or regurgitation); esophageal injury (erosive esophagitis; stricture; Barrett esophagus; and, rarely, adenocarcinoma); and extraesophageal symptoms, such as hoarseness and chronic cough. Proper diagnosis and treatment of GERD includes symptom control, exclusion of other disorders, avoiding overuse of medications and invasive testing, and minimizing complications.

The effectiveness and safety of the anti gastroesophageal reflux system in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a single center study of 23 cases

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of domestically produced magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Method: This study is a prospective cohort study. Patients with typical heartburn and reflux symptoms (at least partial response to proton pump inhibitors), abnormal esophageal acid exposure and normal esophageal peristalsis were included, prospectively in the Department of Gastroesophageal Surgery, Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center from June 2019 to September 2022. Patients with hiatal hernia >2 cm and severe esophagitis were excluded. The MSA was wrapped around the distal esophagus after esophageal hiatus repair by laparoscopy. A postoperative questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the relief of symptom, complications, the discontinuation rate of proton pump inhibitor, and surgical satisfaction. Gastroscopy, high-resolution esophageal pressure measurement, and pH value impedance monitoring were also reviewed. The pre- and postoperative rates were compared using the McNeinar χ2 test. Result: Currently, 23 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease were enrolled and underwent MSA surgery. There were 20 males and 3 females, aged (M (IQR)) 48 (14) years (range: 25 to 64 years). All cases were successfully implanted with MSA. Subjective indicators were followed for 17 (18) months (range: 14 to 53 months), while objective indicators were followed for 17 (1) months (range: 12 to 23 months). The postoperative gastrointestinal and extraesophageal symptom scores showed a significant decrease compared to preoperative levels as follows: the degree of subjective relief of overall digestive symptoms was 90 (20)% (range:0~100%), the degree of subjective relief of overall respiratory symptoms was 100(10)% (range: 10%~100%), the overall satisfaction rate was 83% (19/23), the proton pump inhibitor discontinuation rate was 70% (16/23). The proportion of esophagitis has decreased from 44% (10/23) to 9% (2/23) (κ=0.169, P=0.039), The Hill grade of gastroesophageal valve morphology improved from 1 case of grade Ⅰ, 5 cases of grade Ⅱ, 10 cases of grade Ⅲ, and 7 cases of grade Ⅲ preoperative to 22, 1, 0, and 0 cases postoperative. The proportion of lower esophageal sphincter pressure below normal has decreased from 70% (16/23) to 35% (8/23) (κ=0.170, P=0.012). There were 21 patients who restored normal esophageal acid exposure. Eleven patients had mild long-term dysphagia, but it didn't affect their daily life. No postoperative device migration, erosion, or secondary surgical removal occurred. Conclusions: Laparoscopic implantation of the MSA device was safe and well tolerated. It can effectively control the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, reduce medication, restore normal cardia morphology and function, and esophageal acid exposure. The main postoperative complication was dysphagia, but it was relatively mild.

Foregut Erosion Related to Biomedical Implants: A Scoping Review.

Introduction: Biomedical devices implanted transabdominally have gained popularity over the past 50 years in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, paraesophageal hiatal hernia, and morbid obesity. Device-related foregut erosions (FEs) represent a challenging event that demands special attention owing to the potential of severe postoperative complications and death. Purpose: The aim was to provide an overview of full-thickness foregut injury leading to erosion associated with four types of biomedical devices. Methods: The study was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were queried until December 31, 2023. Eligible studies included all articles reporting data, management, and outcomes on device-related FE. Results: Overall, 132 articless were included for a total of 1292 patients suffering from device-related FE. Four different devices were included: the Angelchik antireflux prosthesis (AAP) (n = 25), nonabsorbable mesh for crural repair (n = 60), adjustable gastric banding (n = 1156), and magnetic sphincter augmentation device (n = 51). The elapsed time from device implant to erosion ranged from 1 to 480 months. Most commonly reported symptoms were dysphagia and epigastric pain, while acute presentation was reported rarely and mainly for gastric banding. The technique for device removal evolved from more invasive open approaches toward minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques. Esophagectomy and gastrectomy were mostly reported for nonabsorbable mesh FE. Overall mortality was .17%. Conclusions: Device-related FE is rare but may occur many years after AAP, nonabsorbable mesh, adjustable gastric banding, and magnetic sphincter augmentation implant. FE-related mortality is infrequent, however, increased postoperative morbidity and the need for esophagogastric resection were observed for nonabsorbable mesh-reinforced cruroplasty.

Advancements in GERD Treatment: Exploring Innovative Therapies

: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) stands as a prevalent and impactful gastrointes-tinal disorder, affecting a substantial portion of the global population. Characterised by the chronic backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus, GERD presents itself with symptoms ranging from the discomfort of heartburn to more severe complications, including esophageal inflammation and respiratory issues [1]. The pervasive nature of this condition underscores the critical need for effective and evolving treatment strategies. As individuals worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by GERD, the quest for advancements in treatment options becomes paramount. The prevalence of GERD extends far beyond its physical manifestations, reaching into the realms of daily life, productivity, and overall well-being. Heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain, hallmarks of GERD, can disrupt sleep patterns, hinder nutritional habits, and compromise the quality of life of an individual [2]. Moreover, the chronic nature of the disease raises concerns about long-term complications, such as Barrett's oesophagus and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. The burden imposed by GERD is not solely physical; it extends to psychological well-being, influencing factors like stress and anxiety. Recognising the multifaceted impact of GERD underscores the urgency of advancing treatment options to address the diverse needs of those affected [3].

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: New Insights and Treatment Approaches.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains a significant global health concern, with increasing prevalence and a substantial impact on quality of life. This narrative review explores recent advances in our understanding of GERD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. The complex interplay of factors contributing to GERD, including lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction, transient sphincter relaxations, and esophageal motility disorders, is discussed. Emerging diagnostic techniques, such as high-resolution manometry and impedance-pH monitoring, have enhanced our ability to accurately identify and characterize GERD. The review highlights the evolving landscape of GERD treatment, from conventional approaches like lifestyle modifications and proton pump inhibitors to novel strategies including potassium-competitive acid blockers, endoscopic therapies, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The potential role of the microbiome in GERD pathogenesis and as a therapeutic target is examined. The concept of personalized medicine in GERD management is explored, considering genetic factors, biomarkers, and individual patient profiles. Complications of GERD, including erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma, are reviewed, emphasizing the importance of early detection and appropriate management. The economic burden and impact on the quality of due to GERD are also addressed. This comprehensive review underscores the multifaceted nature of GERD and the need for a personalized, multidisciplinary approach to its management. It highlights ongoing research efforts and emerging therapies that promise to improve outcomes for GERD patients, while also identifying areas requiring further investigation to optimize diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Experimental and theoretical investigation of five mosapride forms

Mosapride (Mosa) is an active pharmaceutical ingredient commonly used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The purpose of this study is to investigate the possibility of discovering novel solid forms of Mosa that may arise during the process of drug product development, and subsequently analyze their structure. Five forms are obtained here: one is Mosa monohydrate, which has been reported before, and four are new forms (Mosa anhydrate, Mosa methanol hydrate (1:1:1), Mosa ethanol hydrate (1:1:1), and Mosa DMSO solvate (1:1)). The phase composition of the forms was analyzed by powder X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and FTIR analysis. The crystal structures of all five forms were successfully solved using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. To investigate the characteristics of five forms, a combination of X-ray crystallography, 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, molecular electrostatic potential surface, and Hirshfeld surface analysis methods were employed. It's demonstrated that the conformation of Mosa was changed due to the introduction of solvates. The water molecules play vital roles in the formation of Mosa solvates. The presence of water during the preparation process can result in different forms. Furthermore, DVS data demonstrate that the stability of Mosa solvates was significantly impacted by relative humidity.

Endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Reliability of the evidence to guide decision-making in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease with acupuncture: protocol for an overview of systematic reviews

BackgroundGrowing numbers of randomized clinical trials-based systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRs/MAs) have been conducted to examine the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). An overview of SRs/MAs will be conducted with the aim of systematically compiling, evaluating, and synthesizing the evidence regarding acupuncture for GERD.MethodsSRs/MAs of acupuncture on GERD will be searched in eight databases. Two independent reviewers will conduct the literature search, data extraction, and review quality assessment. Utilizing the AMSTAR-2 tool, PRISMA checklists, and GRADE system, respectively, the methodological quality, reporting quality, and evidence quality will be evaluated. In relation to the subject and the overview’s objects, the results will be given. This study will aid in identifying gaps between evidence and its clinical application and serve as a roadmap for further high-quality research.DiscussionThe results of the overview will aid in closing the gap between clinical evidence and its use in clinical practice. This study will identify significant faults in the use of evidence, point out areas where methodology needs to be improved, and provide guidance for future high-quality research.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42022371850.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval is not necessary because no personal information about individuals is collected. A peer-reviewed journal or pertinent conferences will publish the results, whichever comes first.

The feasibility of endoscopic autogenous fat transplantation in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: An animal pilot study

ObjectiveEndoscopic injection is one of the simplest minimally invasive methods for the treatment of gastroesophageal diseases. However, the safety of injection material limits its clinical application. We investigated the feasibility, safety and efficacy of endoscopic autogenous fat transplantation (EAFT) in the lower part of esophagus in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease in New Zealand albino rabbits. MethodsEight New Zealand albino rabbits were used for autogenous fat transplantation. The dynamic pH value of the lower esophagus was monitored before and one week after fat transplantation in two rabbits. The local retention of fat was observed by endoscopy, and the pathological analysis was made at the junction of esophagus and stomach after two weeks of fat transplantation in six albino rabbits. During the experiment, the weight, dietary habit and infection of albino rabbits were monitored. ResultsEndoscopic autogenous fat transplantation of the lower esophagus was successfully performed in 8 albino rabbits. The average pH value of the esophagus increased from 5.6 to 7.5 and 7.4 to 7.9, respectively in two rabbits one week after transplantation. The fat barrier of the lower esophagus was remained locally and observed by endoscopy two weeks after transplantation in six rabbits. Pathology showed that the adipocytes survived in the submucosa with neovascularization. No complications of bleeding, perforation and infection occurred. All albino rabbits kept normal dietary habit. No significant changes in weight were observed. ConclusionEndoscopic autogenous fat transplantation in lower esophagus is considered as a safe and feasible method by preliminary animal experiments, which can provide a new option in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and is worth further study.

Laparoscopic Toupet versus Nissen fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: Randomized prospective study

Laparoscopic Toupet versus Nissen fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: Randomized prospective study

Implementing pharmacogenetic testing to optimize proton-pump inhibitors use among Indian population based on CPIC-CYP2C19-PPI dosing guidelines: The need of the hour.

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed to decrease stomach acid and treat various acid-related Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) diseases. However, genetic variations, particularly in the CYP2C19 gene, affect PPIs metabolism and efficacy. Variants in CYP2C19 can result in different rates of PPI metabolism, influencing their effectiveness. Personalized medicine strategies, such as genotyping for CYP2C19, have the potential to enhance the effectiveness of PPI therapy and patient safety. This review aims to describe the relevance of CYP2C19 genetic profiling in the indian population, including normal function (e.g. CYP2C19*1, *11, *13, *15, *18, *28, and 38), decreased function (e.g., CYP2C19*9, *10, *16, *19, *25, and 26), loss of function (e.g., CYP2C19*2, *3, *4, *5, *6, *7, *8, *22, *24, *35, *36, and *37), and increased function (e.g., CYP2C19*17) variants. This review also examines the clinical pharmacogenomics implementation consortium (CPIC)-CYP2C19-PPI guidelines to highlight the importance of pharmacogenomics (PGx)-informed personalized PPI therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcer disease treatment. On average, each person in India possesses eight pharmacogenetic (PGx) variants that can be clinically significant, underscoring the need for preemptive testing. Implementing CYP2C19 genetic testing in India requires expanding laboratory capacity, increasing accessibility in primary care, increasing public awareness, collaboration between pharmacovigilance and PGx programs, investing in advanced sequencing technologies, data management systems, and integration with electronic health records and clinical decision support systems. Addressing challenges such as genetic diversity, socioeconomic factors, health-care access issues, and shortage of trained professionals is essential for implementation. Due to the lack of definitive country-specific policies and PGx guidelines from Indian drug regulatory agencies, guidelines from international consortia such as the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium and drug labeling offer crucial foundational evidence. This evidence can be used to enhance patient outcomes and ensure the safe and effective use of PPIs in India.

Guidelines for tiered diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease by traditional Chinese medicine in Shanghai

Guidelines for tiered diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease by traditional Chinese medicine in Shanghai

The impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease and its treatment on interstitial lung disease outcomes

BackgroundTo determine the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and its treatment and interstitial lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).MethodsSSc patients from the Australian Scleroderma Cohort Study (ASCS) were included. GORD was defined as self-reported GORD symptoms, therapy with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or histamine 2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) and/or the presence of reflux oesophagitis diagnosed endoscopically. The impact of GORD and its treatment on ILD features (including severity and time to ILD development) and survival was evaluated.ResultsGORD was a common manifestation affecting 1539/1632 (94%) of SSc patients. GORD affected 450/469 (96%) of those with SSc-ILD cohort. In SSc-ILD, there was no relationship between the presence of GORD or its treatment and time to ILD development or ILD severity. However, GORD treatment was associated with improved survival in those with ILD (p = 0.002). Combination therapy with both a PPI and a H2RA was associated with a greater survival benefit than single agent therapy with PPI alone (HR 0.3 vs 0.5 p < 0.050 respectively).ConclusionGORD is a common SSc disease manifestation. While the presence or treatment of GORD does not influence the development or severity of ILD, aggressive GORD treatment, in particular with a combination of PPI and H2RA, is associated with improved survival in those with SSc-ILD.

Zastaprazan: First Approval.

Zastaprazan (JAQBO®) is a next-generation potassium-competitive acid blocker being developed by Onconic Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Jeil Pharmaceutical, for the treatment of acid-related diseases. Zastaprazan binds directly to proton pumps in a competitive manner to reduce gastric acid secretion, allowing for a quick onset of action. On 24 April 2024, zastaprazan received approval in South Korea for the treatment of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Zastaprazan is also undergoing phaseIII development for the treatment of gastric ulcer and for the prevention of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced peptic ulcer. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of zastaprazan leading to this first approval for erosive GERD.