Rebamipide, an amino acid derivative of 2-(1H)-quinolinone, is used for mucosal protection, healing of gastroduodenal ulcers, and treatment of gastritis. It works by enhancing mucosal defense, scavenging free radicals, and temporarily activating genes encoding cyclooxygenase-2.
Studies have shown that rebamipide can fight the damaging effects of NSAIDs on the GIT mucosa, and more recently, the small intestine, but not for naproxen-induced gastric damage.