Peptic Ulcer Disease - Prevention

Prevention

You can greatly reduce the chance that you will develop a peptic ulcer if you:

• Don't start smoking. If you smoke, quit. Smokers are much more likely to develop ulcers than nonsmokers. For ways to quit smoking, see the topic Quitting Tobacco Use.
• Avoid taking certain medications. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If you are taking aspirin regularly for heart problems, ask your doctor about taking another medicine to help protect your stomach and intestines from ulcers.
• Drink alcoholic beverages only in moderation. Never drink alcohol on an empty stomach.