Question

A 56-year-old man with known cirrhosis from hepatitis C has medium-sized oesophageal varices on endoscopy but no prior bleeding. What is the recommended prophylactic therapy to reduce risk of variceal haemorrhage?

Accepted Answer

Non-selective beta blocker such as Propranolol

Answer

Proton pump inhibitor

Answer

Low molecular weight heparin

Answer

High-dose corticosteroids

Answer

No prophylaxis is required until bleeding occurs

Practice question

A 56-year-old man with known cirrhosis from hepatitis C has medium-sized oesophageal varices on endoscopy but no prior bleeding. What is the recommended prophylactic therapy to reduce risk of variceal haemorrhage?