Comprehensive Insights into Screening Models for the Pharmacological Evaluation of Antiulcer Activity

Background:Peptic ulcer is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that develops when the protective mechanisms of the stomach are disrupted in relation to aggressive factors such as gastric acid and pepsin. Contributing risk factors include poor dietary habits, alcohol intake, cigarette smoking, long-term administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lack of physical activity. The resulting imbalance can cause ulcerative lesions in the stomach, duodenum, or, less commonly, the esophagus. Clinically, patients often present with epigastric discomfort, hematemesis with a coffee-ground appearance, dark tarry stools (melena), and persistent abdominal pain, which typically intensifies following meals and frequently leads them to seek medical consultation. Objective: Multiple experimental models are available to evaluate the antiulcer potential of drug molecules. This review aims to identify the most effective models for the pharmacological assessment of antiulcer activity. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out using various databases with keywords such as “anti-ulcer activity,” “in-vitro models,” and “in-vivo models.” Relevant filters were applied to retrieve the most suitable articles for this review. Results: Numerous research and review articles describe diverse screening models for assessing antiulcer activity in novel drug candidates. Conclusion: Based on the analysis, both in-vitro and in-vivo models have unique advantages. A combined approach utilizing both methods may provide the most reliable and clinically relevant outcomes in antiulcer research. Keywords: anti-ulcer activity, in-vitro models, in-vivo models