GORD (Acid Reflux): Pharmacist’s Module 3, 2016

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GORD (Acid Reflux) is the third module for pharmacist participants.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when the stomach contents reflux or back-up into the oesophagus and/or mouth. Reflux is a normal process that occurs in healthy infants, children and adults. Most episodes are brief and do not cause bothersome symptoms or complications. However, people with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD/GERD) experience bothersome symptoms as a result of the reflux. Symptoms can include heartburn, regurgitation, non-cardiac chest pain, vomiting, and difficulty or pain with swallowing. Gastro-oesophageal reflux, therefore, becomes a disease when it either causes damage to the oesophagus or causes symptoms that reduce quality of life.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is notable for its prevalence, variety of clinical presentations, and under-recognised morbidity. While uncomplicated GORD is not a life-threatening disorder, complicated GORD is associated with erosive oesophagitis, haemorrhage, ulcerative oesophagitis and oesophageal strictures. GORD is also a well-established risk factor for Barrett’s oesophagus and oesophageal adenocarcinoma.

Given the negative impact of GORD on health-related quality of life and the increased risk for complications such as Barrett’s oesophagus, it is important to:-
• Address the various factors that contribute to the development of GORD
• Ensure that patients diagnosed with GORD obtain adequate symptomatic relief
• Heal oesophagitis, if present
• Prevent complications from developing

This Module discusses gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, its pathophysiology, risk factors and management.