Treatment patterns and symptom control in patients with GERD: US community-based survey

Abstract

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most commonly used pharmacological treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To examine the utilization patterns of PPIs and other GERD-related medications, satisfaction with PPI treatment and presence of GERD symptoms. GERD patients using prescription PPIs were identified from a mixed-model HMO health plan. Utilization patterns of PPIs and other GERD medications, satisfaction with PPI treatment and presence of GERD symptoms were assessed using questionnaires. Among the 617 patients who completed the survey, 71.0% used PPIs once a day (QD), 22.2% used twice a day (BID) and 6.8% more than twice a day or on an as-needed basis. Approximately 42.1% of all patients supplemented their prescription PPIs with other GERD medications, including over-the-counter medications and H(2)-receptor antagonists. Over 85% of the patients still experienced GERD symptoms and 82.7% nighttime symptoms. Overall, 72.8% of all patients were satisfied or very satisfied with their PPI treatment. The study used self-reported data which may have been subject to recall bias. As the study was conducted in a specific region of the US, the results may have limited generalizability to other US regions or countries. Patients on PPI treatment often experience GERD symptoms and supplement their prescription PPIs with other GERD medications. A substantial proportion of GERD patients receiving PPI treatment are on a BID regimen. Furthermore, more than a quarter of the patients are not completely satisfied with their PPI treatment.