One of the PROTON-PUMP INHIBITORS which inhibit gastric-acid secretion by blocking a key enzyme system in the parietal cells of the STOMACH. The drug is used as a short-term treatment for peptic ulcer (see under STOMACH, DISEASES OF) and DUODENAL ULCER, as well as for strictures and inflammatory erosion of the oesophagus (see OESOPHAGUS, DISEASES OF).