International Journal of Medical, Pharmacy and Drug Research (IJMPD) DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.22161/ijmpd.8.2 Peer-Reviewed Journal Int. J. Med. Phar. Drug Re., 8(2), 2024 ISSN: 2456-8015 Int. J. Med. Phar. Drug Re., 8(2), 2024 Online Available at: https://www.aipublications.com/ijmpd/ 38 Peptic Ulcer: A review Karanvir Singh*, Rajesh Kumar, Ajeet Pal Singh, Meenakshi Malhotra, Amar Pal Singh and Ritu Rani Department of Pharmacy, St. Soldier Institute Of Pharmacy, Lidhran Campus, Behind Nit(R.E.C), Jalandhar-Amritsar Bypass, Nh-1, Jalandhar-144011, Punjab, India *Corresponding Author Received: 09 Mar 2024; Received in revised form:25 Apr 2024; Accepted:05 May 2024; Available online: 13 May 2024 ©2024 The Author(s). Published by This is an open access article under the CC BY license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) Abstract— Peptic ulcers, characterized by painful sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus, are a prevalent gastrointestinal condition affecting millions worldwide. This abstract provides an overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers primarily stem from the imbalance between aggressive factors such as gastric acid secretion, pepsin, and Helicobacter pylori infection, and defensive mechanisms like mucosal barrier integrity and blood flow. Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress, along with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), also contribute to ulcer formation. Symptoms of peptic ulcers include burning pain in the abdomen, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and unintended weight loss. However, some individuals may remain asymptomatic or experience atypical symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, barium X-ray, and H. pylori testing. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, promote ulcer healing, and prevent recurrence. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine receptor antagonists (H2RAs), and antibiotics are commonly prescribed to reduce gastric acid secretion, eradicate H. pylori infection, and promote ulcer healing. Lifestyle modifications including dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and cessation of smoking and alcohol consumption are also integral components of ulcer management. In conclusion, peptic ulcers are a common gastrointestinal disorder with multifactorial etiology. Early recognition of symptoms, accurate diagnosis, and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. Keywords— Peptic ulcers, Gastrointestinal condition, Helicobacter pylori, Diagnosis, Treatment options INTRODUCTION A peptic ulcer refers to a lesion or sore that forms in the mucosal lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus, characterized by erosion of the protective mucous membrane. This condition is a result of an imbalance between aggressive factors, such as gastric acid secretion and pepsin, and protective mechanisms, including the mucus and bicarbonate secretion that line the gastrointestinal tract. Peptic ulcers can vary in size and depth, and they often present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and unintended weight loss. In some cases, patients may not exhibit any symptoms, particularly if the ulcers are small or located in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Peptic ulcers have several potential causes, including infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress. These factors disrupt the delicate balance between aggressive and protective factors, leading to mucosal damage and ulcer formation. If left untreated, peptic ulcers can lead to complications