Pirenzepine and cimetidine in peptic ulcers

Pirenzepine and cimetidine were compared in a clinical trial on forty patients with endoscopically proven peptic ulcer over a six-week period. The ulcer-healing effect of both drugs was comparable, but the group on pirenzepine experienced on earlier relief of pain, the majority being free from pain after the 3rd week. The pirenzepine group showed a relatively high incidence of frequent loose stools, increased appetite and dry mouth. The comparative value of the drugs in relation to recurrence of ulcers in these patients will be determined in the on-going long-term follow-up.