[Peptic enzymes for irritable stomache syndrome: a new, old therapeutic option? Results of a survey among family doctors].

OBJECTIVE AND METHOD: The treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia (irritable stomache syndrome) was recorded in a nationwide survey among family doctors. On a questionnaire, the physicians should provide information on the use of a combination preparation of gastric enzyme (pepsin) and amino acids, duration of use, therapy success and patients' contentment.

RESULTS: A total of 874 family doctors were contacted, 201 questionnaires were completed and evaluated. The physicians administered the combination preparation predominantly for feeling of fullness and pressure (82%), flatulence (78%) and upper abdominal pain (57%), usually over 3-6 weeks. They confirmed, that patients who suffered from these symptoms were very content with the combination preparation. 85% of the doctors rated the therapeutic success as "good" to "very good".

CONCLUSION: The combination of gastric enzyme (pepsin) and amino acids can be an effective therapeutic option for functional dyspepsia (irritable stomache syndrome) in medical practice.