Long-term effects and after-effects of treatment of duodenal ulcer with metiamide.

Three therapeutic regimens were investigated to find the best way of treating duodenal ulceration with the histamine H2-receptor antagonist metiamide. Relapse of duodenal ulceration was not prevented by nocturnal administration of metiamide. Recurrence was prevented by continued administration of metiamide for 1 year, but cessation of treatment was followed by rapid relapse or symptomless recurrence of the ulceration. Repeated short courses (1 month) of treatment resulted in slower symptomatic control and more rapid recurrence of the ulceration. The treatment of duodenal ulcer with H2-receptor antagonists requires further investigation.