Which synthetic medication is used for treating stomach issues?

• A. Anistreplase
• B. Fentanyl
• C. Cimetidine
• D. Sodium bicarbonate

Answer: (C)

The question tests understanding of medications that reduce stomach acid to treat acid-related conditions. Cimetidine is a synthetic drug that blocks histamine H2 receptors on gastric parietal cells. By preventing histamine from stimulating the parietal cells, it lowers both basal and meal-stimulated acid secretion, raising the gastric pH and helping ulcers, gastritis, and GERD heal and symptoms improve. It can be given orally or by IV, making it a targeted option for acid-related disorders.

Anistreplase is a thrombolytic used to dissolve clots in myocardial infarction, so it has no role in treating stomach acid issues. Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic for pain control, not for acid reduction. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes acid chemically and provides short-term relief, but it’s not the targeted, long-term therapy for acid-related stomach conditions like an H2 blocker is.