Recently the group of medications called PPIs (proton pump ...



Recently the group of medications called PPIs (proton pump inhibitors see list below) has been linked (associated with) to a number of health issues such as chronic kidney disease, dementia, Cdiff , low calcium or magnesium.

An association with a certain disease or condition does not indicate that the drugs cause or increase the risk of the condition necessarily. This could only be shown by a true experiment, a randomized controlled trial, where one group of people is put on PPIs for a long time and one group on a placebo. In most of the associations more studies are needed to truly assess the causality and actual risk.

PPIs have been widely used since the 1990s. In general these are very safe medications used for peptic ulcer disease, acid reflux, Barrett's esophagus as well a variety of other conditions.

A recent German observational study that attracted significant media attention possibly linked the use of PPIs with dementia. The patients that were taking PPIs in this study were also more likely to have diagnoses of depression, stroke and ischemic heart disease. They were also much more likely to be on multiple other medicines as well.

Another recent study from the Department of Veteran Affairs has raised questions about PPIs and risk of kidney disease. The study was retrospective and therefore it is difficult to account for other differences between PPI users and non-users. More studies are needed to assess this possible association.

Many patients who take PPIs may not need them long term. Make an appointment and talk to your health care provider if you feel you may not need this medication or have any other concerns.

PPIs

Dexilant dexlansoprazole

prevacid lansoprazole

protonix pantoprazole

nexium esomeprazole

prilosec omeprazole

aciphex rabeprazole

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