As reported in the accompanying article, lansoprazole has been successfully used in the treatment of children with GERD. It was well tolerated, and was effective in providing symptomatic relief in several pediatric studies. Constipation, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, headache or insomnia may occur in 3 years’ duration) use of proton pump inhibitors. Lansoprazole’s availability in capsules and powder form makes it easier to administer to children. Usually a once-daily average dose of 0.9 mg/kg is sufficient for relieving symptoms, however, twice daily administration may be needed. Further dose escalation requires combined intragastric and intraesophageal monitoring to decide which individual dose should be increased, the morning or evening one. [2] In a few refractory cases, the average daily dosage (administered as two divided doses) was increased to 1.35 mg/kg/day (range 1.1–3.0 mg/kg/day). GERD is a long term and common gastrointestinal malady, and requires treatment that significantly affects the quality of life for patients and parents. [3] Furthermore, if GERD is not treated aggressively, there is potential for complications to develop in people with the disease. It is extremely important to ensure the efficacy and safety of these medications, as otherwise, when the ‘little’ refluxers grow into ‘adult’ refluxers they may be forced to look at other treatment options such as surgery. ▲ References