Gastroenterologists Use OTC Meds for GERD or Constipation Save

When gastroenterologists responded to a nationwide survey regarding their management of GERD and contipation, half of the 830 gastroenterology respondents (23% response rate) prescribed for their patients OTC proton-pump inhibitors (PPI), 13% recommended an OTC histamine-2 receptor antagonists, and only 33% recommended a prescription PPI.  For constipation, 97% of gastroenterologists recommended OTC treatments. The vast majority of gastroenterologists felt that OTC brand name and store brand polyethylene glycol (PEG3350; 90%) and PPIs (76%) were equally effective. Despite feeling that name brand and store brand PPIs and laxatives are equally effective, the majority of gastroenterologists recommend brand name medicines and underestimate the cost savings associated with store brands.