GERD in Neonates and Pediatrics: Use of Omeprazole

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux is a common disorder found in infants and children. Treatment modalities include conservative measures, medications, and surgery. Histamine2 receptor antagonists alone or in combination with prokinetic agents are the first-line medical options, but the addition of prokinetic agents or a change to proton pump inhibitors is reasonable. Corrective fundoplication is reserved as the last-line treatment strategy. The use of proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole for acid suppression has been studied in children, and a stable, extemporaneous formulation can be prepared. Despite limited data in pediatrics, omeprazole appears to be safe and effective for treating reflux and for decreasing the need for fundoplication.