Histamine H2-receptor antagonist in treatment of peptic ulcer.

Cimetidine promotes the healing of duodenal ulcer, but prolonged use (perhaps in low dosage) seems to be necessary in many cases to prevent relapse. H2 receptors are widely distributed in body tissue, but important effects of blockade of the extragastric receptors have not been detected. Nor has serious toxicity been noted. Cimetidine probably will become a familiar, much-used, and valuable drug.