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 Potential harms including pneumonia, C. difficile, and unnecessary continuation When to start and stop therapy based on ICU course and risk factors Current evidence suggests stress ulcer prophylaxis should be targeted to high-risk patients rather than applied universally, with discontinuation once risk factors resolve. This episode is part of our emergency critical care series focused on making ICU pharmacology and physiology simple, practical, and clinically applicable. 🔥 Master emergency critical care with our full curriculum + downloadable study guides: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPBoXHIPKnE ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The views expressed are those of the creators and do not represent any affiliated institutions. Clinical decisions should be made based on individual patient context, current evidence, and institutional protocols.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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