Peptic Ulcer & Persistent Heartburn: Treatment in Nigeria
Updated July 2026 · Educational information — not a substitute for a doctor or pharmacist
'Ulcer' is one of Nigeria's most self-diagnosed conditions — almost any recurring stomach pain gets the label. True peptic ulcers are sores in the stomach or duodenum, and most are caused by either the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (very common in Nigeria) or regular use of NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen and diclofenac — not by pepper, hunger, or 'strong food' alone, though these can aggravate symptoms.
That distinction matters because true H. pylori ulcers are curable: a one-to-two-week combination of acid-suppressing medicine plus antibiotics clears the infection for good in most people. Endless bottles of antacid manage the symptom while the cause remains.
Acid suppression with omeprazole (a proton-pump inhibitor) is the backbone of modern treatment; antacids like magnesium trisilicate give fast short-term relief. If you're reaching for either regularly, the useful step is testing for H. pylori rather than restocking.
Signs & symptoms
- Burning or gnawing pain in the upper belly, often between meals or at night
- Pain that improves or worsens with food
- Bloating, belching, early fullness
- Heartburn and sour reflux
- Danger signs: vomiting blood, black tarry stool, severe sudden pain, unintended weight loss — emergency
Medicines used for peptic ulcer & persistent heartburn in Nigeria
Each medicine links to its full guide — uses, dosage forms, current naira prices, and NAFDAC-registered brands. Diagnosis and dosing belong with a clinician or pharmacist.
Proton-pump inhibitor — the core acid-suppressing treatment for ulcers, reflux, and H. pylori regimens
Antacid suspension for fast, short-term relief of heartburn and ulcer pain
One of the antibiotics used in H. pylori eradication combinations (prescription)
Prescription required
Alternative antibiotic in H. pylori eradication combinations (prescription)
Antispasmodic for cramping abdominal pain — relieves spasm, does not heal ulcers
How it's treated
For confirmed H. pylori, treatment is a combination course — typically a PPI (like omeprazole) plus two antibiotics (commonly amoxicillin with clarithromycin or metronidazole) for 10–14 days. It must be prescribed and completed in full; half-courses breed resistant H. pylori.
Stop the cause you can control: avoid regular ibuprofen/diclofenac if you're ulcer-prone (paracetamol is gentler on the stomach), reduce alcohol, and don't smoke. Antacids are fine for occasional relief but are not a treatment plan.
See a doctor if…
- Vomiting blood or anything looking like coffee grounds; black tarry stools — emergency
- Severe sudden abdominal pain — possible perforation, emergency
- Symptoms recurring whenever you stop antacids or omeprazole — get tested for H. pylori
- Unintended weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent vomiting
- Ulcer-type symptoms while needing daily NSAIDs or aspirin — protective treatment may be needed
Prevention
- Use paracetamol rather than NSAIDs for routine aches if you're ulcer-prone
- Limit alcohol; stop smoking — both impair ulcer healing
- Complete any H. pylori course fully to prevent resistant reinfection
- Wash hands and use safe water — H. pylori spreads person-to-person and via contaminated water
Frequently asked questions
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Related conditions
This page is educational information about how peptic ulcer & persistent heartburn is generally managed in Nigeria. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Always consult a licensed clinician or pharmacist, and verify any medicine's NAFDAC registration with our free checker before buying.