#247 ICU Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis Explained | Indications, Medications, Pros, Cons, & Evidence

WhiteBoard Medicine - Emergency And Critical Care · Apr 12, 2026 · 30m

Stress ulcer prophylaxis is one of the most common interventions in the ICU — but also one of the most overused and misunderstood. In this episode, we break down when stress ulcer prophylaxis is actually indicated, what medications to use, and what the evidence really shows so you can make better bedside decisions. We cover: The pathophysiology of stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) and GI bleeding Which ICU patients are truly high risk (shock, coagulopathy, critical illness) Evidence-based indications for prophylaxis vs overuse PPIs vs H2 blockers — mechanisms, benefits, and risks…