Final answer:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as lansoprazole, omeprazole, and esomeprazole, reduce stomach acid by blocking the enzyme system in gastric cells. They are used to treat ulcers, GERD, and other acid-related conditions, differing from antacids and H₂-receptor antagonists in their mechanism of action.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are medications that significantly reduce stomach acid production. They work by blocking the enzyme system of acid pumps in the gastric cells, essentially shutting down the acid production process.
Examples of PPIs include lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), and esomeprazole (Nexium). These are used to treat conditions like ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, where excessive stomach acid causes harm.
Unlike antacids that neutralize existing stomach acid, PPIs prevent new acid from being produced, making them a more long-term solution to acid-related issues. In contrast, antacids can quickly neutralize stomach acid and are typically used for symptomatic relief.
When treating infections such as those caused by Helicobacter pylori, responsible for many ulcer cases, the treatment often includes antibiotics alongside a PPI, as PPIs do not have antibacterial properties.
It's important to note the difference between PPIs and other acid-reducing agents like H₂-receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine, cimetidine), which also decrease stomach acid production, but via a different mechanism compared to PPIs.