Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed to reduce the production of stomach acid. They are used to treat many conditions (e.g. gastro-oesphageal reflux disease and peptic ulcer disease) and they are effective at treating symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation.
Common PPIs include omeprazole (e.g.Losec), esompeprazole (e.g.Nexium), pantoprazole (e.g. Somac), lansoprazole (e.g.Zoton) & rabeprazole (e.g.Pariet).
Whilst PPIs are well tolerated by the majority of people, there may be potential adverse effects, particularly with long term use. These potential adverse events include –
- Nutritional Deficiencies – risk of decreased absorption of magnesium, calcium and vit B12 (0.5-2%)
- Bone Fractures – increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures (1.5 to 2-fold increase)
- Kidney Disease – associated with an increased risk of chronic kidney disease. The degree of risk can vary based on individual factors, such as dosage and duration of use.
- Infections – increased susceptibility to gastrointestinal infection (1-2%)
There will be cases where long term use of PPIs are necessary to effectively manage certain conditions and prevent complications.
If you are taking a PPI regularly long term and are unsure of the reason, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can help evaluate the need for continued use, discuss options for gradually reducing the dose and assess any potential side effects.
Disclaimer – This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a registered health professional regarding any health-related diagnosis or treatment options.
