2. Duration of Therapy

Adult and Pediatric Patients

Clinical trials document a maximum treatment duration of 56 days (eight weeks) for anti-ulcer therapy in treating acute duodenal and gastric ulcers. In pediatric patients, an 8-week maximum GERD acute treatment duration is recommended.  H2RA treatment regimens at acute dosage levels lasting longer than four months will be reviewed.

When used for nonulcer indigestion/heartburn, H2RA treatment duration should not exceed 14 days at the maximum dose, unless directed by a physician.

Maintenance therapy, at recommended daily maintenance doses (Tables 2, 3, and 5), may be continued indefinitely based on patient need.

H2RAs may be used in conjunction with PPIs in GERD patients experiencing nocturnal breakthrough symptoms.