**Core Concept**
The patient has a duodenal ulcer, which is an open sore in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. The management of duodenal ulcers involves addressing the underlying cause, which is often related to Helicobacter pylori infection or the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most appropriate next step in management is to prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) along with antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection. The PPI will reduce acid production in the stomach, allowing the ulcer to heal, while the antibiotics will target and eliminate the H. pylori bacteria that are contributing to the ulcer. This is based on the fact that H. pylori infection is a major cause of duodenal ulcers, and eradication of the infection is essential for healing and preventing recurrence.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Prescribing a H2 receptor antagonist alone is not sufficient as it only reduces acid production by 50-70%, whereas PPIs reduce acid production by 90-95%. This may not be effective in eradicating H. pylori infection.
**Option B:** Performing a repeat endoscopy without addressing the underlying cause of the ulcer is not a productive next step. The biopsy is already negative for malignancy, so further investigation is not necessary at this stage.
**Option C:** Prescribing antacids alone is not sufficient as they only provide symptomatic relief and do not address the underlying cause of the ulcer. The patient has already tried antacids with minimal relief.
**Option D:** Performing a laparoscopic surgery is not a first-line treatment for a duodenal ulcer, especially when the patient is not experiencing severe symptoms or complications.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that H. pylori infection is a major cause of duodenal ulcers, and eradication of the infection is essential for healing and preventing recurrence. A triple therapy regimen consisting of a PPI, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin is a common treatment for H. pylori infection.

**Correct Answer: C. Prescribing a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) along with antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection.**