Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What does Misoprostol primarily do in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease?

1. Increases gastric acid secretion

2. Decreases gastric acid production

3. Repairs damaged intestinal lining

4. Inhibits pepsin activity

The correct answer is: Decreases gastric acid production

Misoprostol is primarily used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease due to its ability to decrease gastric acid production. As a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analog, Misoprostol acts on the gastric mucosa, stimulating the production of mucus and bicarbonate while simultaneously inhibiting the secretion of gastric acid. This helps create a protective barrier in the stomach lining and reduces the potential for ulcer formation. The role of Misoprostol in enhancing mucosal defense makes it particularly beneficial for patients who are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can irritate the gastric lining and lead to ulcer development. By decreasing gastric acid production, it effectively mitigates one of the key factors that contribute to the formation and aggravation of peptic ulcers. Maintaining a balanced environment within the stomach and promoting healing of the mucosal layer are crucial for individuals suffering from peptic ulcer disease, further emphasizing the importance of Misoprostol’s mechanism of action in this context.