Abstract

Pantoprazole (Protium - Knoll) is the third proton pump inhibitor to be marketed in the UK. It is licensed for the treatment of duodenal ulcer, benign gastric ulcer and reflux oesophagitis. Unlike omeprazole and lansoprazole, pantoprazole is not licensed for maintenance therapy in these disorders nor for use in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. The manufacturer claims that pantoprazole offers "precise control in acid-related disorders", with "selective targeting" of the proton pump, "predictable pharmacokinetics" and minimal risk of interactions with other drugs. Does pantoprazole offer any advantage over established proton pump inhibitors?