H2 receptor antagonist
H2 Receptor Antagonist
H2 receptor antagonists, also known as H2 blockers, are a class of medications that are commonly used to reduce the production of stomach acid. They do this by blocking the action of histamine on the H2 receptors of the parietal cells in the stomach lining.
Pronunciation
H2 receptor antagonist: /eɪtʃ tuː rɪˈsɛptər æntəˈɡɒnɪst/
Etymology
The term "H2 receptor antagonist" is derived from the name of the receptor they act upon, the H2 receptor. The H2 receptor is named for its activation by the molecule histamine. The term "antagonist" comes from the Greek word "antagonistes", meaning opponent or rival.
Related Terms
- Histamine: A compound that is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries.
- Parietal cells: Cells in the stomach lining that produce and secrete stomach acid.
- Proton pump inhibitors: Another class of medication used to decrease stomach acid production. They are often used when H2 receptor antagonists are not effective.
- Gastric acid: The acid produced by the stomach, which aids in digestion.
- Peptic ulcer disease: A condition often treated with H2 receptor antagonists, characterized by the presence of peptic ulcers, or sores, on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine.
Usage
H2 receptor antagonists are primarily used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. They can also be used to prevent stress ulcers in critically ill patients and to prevent damage to the esophagus in those with GERD.
Examples
Examples of H2 receptor antagonists include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid).
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on H2 receptor antagonist
- Wikipedia's article - H2 receptor antagonist
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