Which medication category should be avoided in patients with peptic ulcer disease?

In patients with peptic ulcer disease, the category that should be avoided is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This is because NSAIDs can inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which play a crucial role in maintaining the gastric mucosal barrier. By reducing the levels of these protective substances, NSAIDs can increase the risk of developing ulcers or exacerbate existing ones. This can lead to increased gastric irritation, ulcer formation, and potentially serious complications such as bleeding or perforation of the gastric lining.

Corticosteroids, while they can have gastrointestinal side effects, are generally used in a more controlled manner and under medical supervision, making them less immediately dangerous for peptic ulcer patients compared to NSAIDs. Antibiotics may be prescribed to eradicate H. pylori infections associated with ulcers, and antacids are often used to neutralize stomach acid and provide symptom relief. Thus, NSAIDs represent a particular risk in the context of peptic ulcer disease and should be avoided.