A bismuth-peptide complex in the treatment of duodenal ulceration. A double-blind duodenoscopic study.

A bismuth-protein complex (Bicitropeptide, BCP-Compound) active at an acid pH was studied in a trial of treatment in ambulant patients with duodenal ulcers. BCP is said to have an affinity for actively granulating tissue, and to coat the ulcer with a protective layer, allowing healing to occur. A double-blind trial of BCP and placebo was undertaken in 60 patients with duodenal ulcers. Assessments were made by duodenoscopy. Healing of the ulcers occurred in 89% of patients on BCP, and the mean time for the disappearance of symptoms on BCP was 4,9 days. Only 16% of ulcers healed on placebo, and the mean time for disappearance of symptoms on placebo was 6,8 days. This result is highly significant and in favour of BCP (X-2 equals 30,52 P less than 0,0005). No side-effects were observed.