SUMMARYBackground: Intragastric acid suppression is the most direct measure of the pharmacodynamic efficacy of proton pump inhibitors, which are the most effective drugs for acid-related diseases. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of once and twice daily dosing of lansoprazole and esomeprazole in controlling intragastric acidity (target gastric pH > 4.0) over a 24-hour period. Methods:In an open-label, two-way crossover study, 45 Helicobacter pylori-negative patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease were randomized to receive one of two regimens: 30 mg lansoprazole or esomeprazole 40 mg once daily. Intragastric pH was assessed by 24-hour pH monitoring on day 5 of each regimen. Dosing was increased to twice daily and pH was reassessed on day 10. Following a 14-day washout, patients were crossed over to the other medication and the dosage regimens and pH assessments were repeated.

Inspired by the ABIM Foundation's Choosing Wisely® campaign, the “Things We Do for No Reason™” (TWDFNR) series reviews practices that have become common parts of hospital care but may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion.

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