Proton Pump Inhibitors

Guidelines recommend 4 to 8 weeks of PPI treatment for many suspected GERD cases before discontinuation. The protocol cites estimates that 39% to 63% of long-term PPI use is inappropriate. Prescription proton pump inhibitors were previously used to treat reflux in this case. PPIs suppress gastric acid and have been perceived as safe by clinicians and patients. PPIs raise gastric pH by reducing stomach acid, which impairs micronutrient solubilization. PPIs reduce intrinsic factor, which is needed for B12 absorption. Long-term PPI use has been linked to hypochlorhydria, pneumonia, enteric infection, fractures, nutrient malabsorption, and osteoporotic fractures. The article says PPIs impair absorption of B12, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Discontinuing PPI medication led to the return of reflux symptoms. Long-term PPI use is associated with possible harms including nutrient malabsorption, infections, kidney failure, myocardial infarction and Alzheimer's disease. Neutralizing stomach acid with PPIs and similar products can make digestion even less effective. PPIs are associated in the article with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and cognitive decline. Acid-neutralizing treatments…