A 55-year-old man with a history of heavy alcohol use presents with haematemesis and melena. He is tachycardic and hypotensive. After initial resuscit...

Question

A 55-year-old man with a history of heavy alcohol use presents with haematemesis and melena. He is tachycardic and hypotensive. After initial resuscitation, which pharmacological therapy should be commenced before endoscopy if variceal bleeding is suspected?

Accepted Answer

Octreotide (or terlipressin where available)

Answer

High-dose proton pump inhibitor infusion

Answer

Tranexamic acid only

Answer

No therapy until endoscopy confirms varices

Answer

Metoclopramide to empty the stomach

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

A 55-year-old man with a history of heavy alcohol use presents with haematemesis and melena. He is tachycardic and hypotensive. After initial resuscitation, which pharmacological therapy should be commenced before endoscopy if variceal bleeding is suspected?