I’m sure everyone has heard of Proton Pump Inhibitors, right? You know, those medications we all take when we have some indigestion. You might recognize them by their brand names Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix, or Prevacid? Or their generic names omeprazole, pantoprozole, etc. In the medical world, we call them PPIs (short for Proton Pump Inhibitors) and we commonly use them when someone is suffering from a bout of gastritis or GERD/reflux because they reduce stomach acid. They are also used if someone has a gastric ulcer to help heal the area. They are so commonly used (rather, overused) that they can be found over the counter now.
However, proton pump inhibitors are only meant to be used short term, with few exceptions, such as Barrett’s esophagus. All too often, patients end up taking them for much longer than needed.
Side Effects from Prolonged Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors
Long term use of PPIs can lead to bone density loss. When stomach acid is constantly suppressed, theintestines cannot adequately absorb calcium, which leads to weakened bones.
Long term use of PPIs can also promote atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. They inhibit an enzyme that breaks down an important molecule involved in the production of nitric oxide which keeps our arteries open. When this enzyme is blocked, there is more constriction of our arteries.
PPIs might also increase someone’s risk of pneumonia when used long term. By suppressing stomach acid, the gut and respiratory tract microbiome is altered leading to growth of more pathogenic bacteria.
Talk with Your Doctor About How Long You’ve Been on Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI)
The bottom line is to talk to your doctor or provider if you have been on this class of medication for more than 3 months. Is it still needed? Sometimes, we, as providers, need to be reminded to reassess our patients’ need for certain medications. It’s all about teamwork!
From my home to yours,
Christine Pluta, DO
Schuylkill Medical Associates, LLC
www.smahousecalls.com