Synonyms in a broader sense
Proton pump inhibitors, PPI, active ingredients with the suffix -prazole (e.g. Pantoprazole), Antra® pump inhibitors
Introduction
Normally there is a balance in the stomach between the production of the aggressive gastric acid and the protective mechanisms of mucus and hydrogen carbonate formation. For the production of gastric acid, the vascular or parietal cells are responsible, for the production of mucus and hydrogen carbonate, the secondary cells. The production is regulated by a number of different mechanisms.
The pH value of the acid is normally between 1 and 2 and is produced by an enzyme of the vouchers or parietal cells, the H+/K+-ATPase or proton pump, which pumps positively charged hydrogen atoms (protons) into the stomach in exchange for the ion potassium, consuming energy. Diseases associated with stomach acid can be influenced in 3 ways. One possibility is the buffering of gastric acid by antacids.
A second possibility is the reconstruction of the mucous membrane protection. The third way aims at reducing the production of gastric acid. These include the so-called proton pump inhibitors (PPI) such as the active ingredient omeprazole.
During a therapy with omeprazole, an attempt should always be made at the same time to identify and eliminate the triggering factors of overproduction of gastric acid. Stress and a hectic lifestyle have a positive effect on hydrochloric acid production. Certain stimulants such as coffee, high-proof alcohol and spicy foods also stimulate production.
It should not be forgotten that a very specific germ called Helicobacter pylori can also readily colonize the stomach mucosa and is the most common cause of stomach and intestinal ulcers and inflammation of the stomach mucosa. Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole have displaced other therapeutic agents such as antacids (neutralize stomach acid). They are the first choice even before H2 blockers.
Mode of action of omeprazole
Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole work by binding to the enzyme responsible for stomach acid production, thus irreversibly inhibiting it. As so-called Prodrugs work proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazol) only with acid pH and if the document cells are active. Only the enzymes that are located on the stomach cell membrane are blocked. The active substance (omeprazole) is transported via the bloodstream to the prophylaxis cells, where it accumulates and activates the proton pumps.
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