Question

A 68-year-old man with chronic liver disease due to hepatitis C presents with melena and hypotension. Endoscopy confirms bleeding oesophageal varices which are banded. Which long-term pharmacological strategy is recommended to reduce risk of recurrent variceal bleeding?

Accepted Answer

Non-selective β-blocker such as propranolol or carvedilol

Answer

Long-term proton pump inhibitor alone

Answer

Warfarin anticoagulation

Answer

Aspirin 100 mg daily

Answer

Thalidomide therapy

Practice question

A 68-year-old man with chronic liver disease due to hepatitis C presents with melena and hypotension. Endoscopy confirms bleeding oesophageal varices which are banded. Which long-term pharmacological strategy is recommended to reduce risk of recurrent variceal bleeding?