Lansoprazole Compared With Ranitidine for the Treatment of Nonerosive Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Abstract
GASTROESOPHAGEAL reflux disease (GERD) is a ubiquitous, chronic disorder that may cause a significant decrease in patient functioning and quality of life and an increase in the risk for esophageal damage. While a large percentage of individuals report occasional or monthly heartburn,1 approximately 20% of the US adult population experiences reflux symptoms on a weekly basis.2 A recent study found that the presence of weekly heartburn symptoms has a significant negative impact on patients' physical and mental functioning.1