A class of acid-suppressing medications called proton pump inhibitors (for example, omeprazole, lansoprazole) is now first line treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. These drugs reduce acid production by the stomach dramatically and promote healing of ulcers in the stomach and small bowel. They also provide relief of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Another class of acid-suppressing medications called H-2 blockers may also be used (for example, cimetidine, ranitidine). The H-2 blockers are less potent than proton pump inhibitors.

Surgical removal of a single gastrinoma may be attempted if there is no evidence that it has spread to other organs (such as lymph nodes or the liver). Surgery on the stomach (gastrectomy) to control acid production is rarely necessary today.

Complications

spread of the tumor to other organs (most often liver and lymph nodes)
failure to locate the tumor during surgery

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if severe, persistent abdominal pain occurs, especially if it occurs with diarrhea.