Advice on the use of acid suppressants and proton pump
inhibitors will cut indigestion and save the NHS £50m a year, health minister
John Denham has announced.
The announcement follows recommendations published by the
National Institute for Clinical Excellence.
These have been sent to doctors to advise them to use
low-cost treatments at an early stage, to prevent development into more serious
conditions.
The institute recommends proton pump inhibitors for
treatment of an ulcer caused by use of other medication. Mild indigestion or
heartburn can be treated with a low-dose antacid.
"The guidance issue means that patients can rest
assured they will get the treatment that is right for them, wherever they
live," said Denham.
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