Abstract

Histamine H₂-receptor blockers remain the first-line drug treatment for duodenal ulcer. Cimetidine (Tagamet) was introduced in 1976 in a four times daily dosage, and ranitidine (Zantac) in 1981 in a twice daily dosage. Clinical trials have shown that the drugs are similarly effective given twice daily.¹ Recently, however, treatment with a single bedtime dose of cimetidine (800mg) or ranitidine (300mg) has been advocated for the healing of duodenal ulcer. Is this simple regimen as effective as the established twice daily dosage?