CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 2003 (PART 32)

Approximately one-third of the population in Western societies experiences regular dyspepsia, although more than half selfmedicate with over-the-counter antacid preparations and do not seek medical advice. Up to 50% of those who do will have demonstrable pathology, most commonly gastro-oesophageal reflux or peptic ulceration. The remainder, in whom no abnormality is found, are diagnosed as having nonulcer dyspepsia.The pathophysiology and treatment differ for each of these three conditions.