Administration of pantoprazole and its effects on gastric PH,inflammatory & anti inflammatory factors in critically ill patients.

This study tests whether a heartburn and ulcer medication called pantoprazole (a proton pump inhibitor, or PPI) can also reduce inflammation in the stomach of critically ill patients — not just raise the stomach's acid level. Critically ill patients are at risk of stomach ulcers from stress, and researchers want to find out if PPIs provide an anti-inflammatory benefit as well as acid reduction. You may be eligible if: - You are 18 to 70 years of age - You are critically ill and need a nasogastric tube - You are expected to have nothing by mouth for at least 48 hours - Your stomach acid level is below pH 3.5 at the start - You have a risk factor for stress ulcer, such as a clotting disorder, being on a ventilator, shock, respiratory failure, or serious trauma You may NOT be eligible if: - You have a history of peptic ulcer disease - You have a condition called Zollinger-Ellison syndrome - You are already taking H2 blockers or anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - You are receiving tube feedings - You have significant kidney or liver impairment Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.