A randomized controlled study looked at the role of H2 receptor antagonists following simple closure of perforated duodenal ulcer.

The study included 192 patients who had undergone simple closure for perforated duodenal ulcer. The participants were divided into two groups – Group A: study group received H2 receptor antagonists; and Group B: control group received placebo. Endoscopic follow-up was possible for only 174 patients.

After 24 weeks, 6 out of 90 patients (6.6%) in group A and 18 out of 84 patients (21.4%) in group B were noted to have persistent symptoms of ulcer disease and endoscopically confirmed ulcer (p < 0.05).

The study concluded that H2 receptor antagonists have a clear impact on prognosis after simple closure for perforated duodenal ulcer.

Source: Singh K, Chhina RS, Ghosh A, Kaura R. Impact of ranitidine on prognosis after simple closure of perforated duodenal ulcer. Trop Gastroenterol. Apr-Jun 1999;20(2):90-2.