- The inclusion criteria were ulcer healing confirmed by follow-up endoscopy, a negative test for Helicobacter pylori or successful eradication of Helicobacter pylori based on histology, and anticipated regular use of NSAIDs for the duration of the trial. The exclusion criteria were concomitant use of low-dose aspirin, anticoagulants or corticosteroids; a history of gastric or duodenal surgery other than a patch repair; the presence of erosive esophagitis, gastric outlet obstruction, renal failure (defined by a serum creatinine level of more than 2.26 mg per deciliter), terminal illness, or cancer.